May 25 - Seminole Tribe of Florida

Alex Johns Tampa Board Rep.
David Dehass Hwd. Board Rep.
The
David Cypress BC Council Rep.
John Wayne Huff Sr. Br Council Rep.
Max Osceola Jr. Hwd Council Rep.
Paul Bowers Sr. BC Board Rep.
SEMINOLE TRIBUNE
Bulk Rate
U.S. Postage
Paid
Lake Placid FL
Permit No. 128
“Voice of the Unconquered”
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www.seminoletribe.com
Volume XXII Number 7
Remembering Candy
May 25, 2001
Oneva Smith
Baxley Retires
By Libby Blake
HOLLYWOOD – Juanita Osceola and family,
with support from Council Representative David Cypress,
held the 5th Annual Candy Osceola Memorial Pool
Tournament last weekend at the Hollywood Recreation
Gym.
The two-day event, held Friday and Saturday,
included divisions for both men and women, boys and
girls, and seniors. Pool sharks (and some guppies) from all
over Seminole Country turned out to honor Candy and her
family and to try for the $600 first place prize.
Friday night the festivities got underway with the
youth and seniors. Competition was fierce but friendly as
the players grabbed their sticks to shoot in the one game,
double elimination tournaments.
Previous tournament winners felt the heat as they
tried to rise to the top of the brackets. Some made it; some
fell by the wayside as play continued into the early morning hours. This made it kind of tough on the parents who
had to return on Saturday at 10 a.m. for their own divisions. (Veterans of the game and these events know that
lack of sleep is a given.)
Play continued on Saturday until early evening
for the top five positions in each division. Food and beverages to help sustain the players and the audience were provided throughout the tournament by Sonny’s Hogies.
Commemorative T-shirts were available for those wanting
See CANDY, page 13
Oneva Baxley on her way to take it easy.
Guard, Indians Try
To Forge New Ties
By Janice Billie
BRIGHTON — As of May 4,
Brighton Cattle and Range and Seminole
Tribe Board lost one of its most dependable and dedicated employees to retirement. After 23 years starting as a receptionist and retiring as the departments’
accounts payable/bookkeeper, Oneva
Smith Baxley put in her last day as a
Tribal employee on Friday.
At a luncheon in her honor held
at the Lakeport Lodge, Oneva was commended by her supervisor, Cattle and
Range Program Director Don Robertson,
as an outstanding employee who could be
relied upon to work hard and conscientiously on any task asked of her. “After
23 years, Oneva is like part of the foundation here at Cattle and Range and we
are all sad to see her go, but we wish her
only the best,” said Robertson. Seminole
Board Operations Manager, Carolyn
Billie presented Oneva with a gold watch
and bracelet set from President Mitchell
Cypress’ Office and the Board of
By Michael Reed
Reprint from St. Augustine Record
In an effort of reconciliation between the United
States government and American Indians, laws were
passed years ago requiring every government agency to
consult with federally-recognized tribes.
Now various tribes and the Florida National
Guard are coming together to preserve American Indian
historic and cultural sites.
Last weak, the Florida National Guard held consultations with six tribes, Col. Jeff Hetherington said it was
the right thing to do.
“I should say we’re off to an excellent start, and
the consultations went very well.”
The guard, aided by American Indians, will try to
protect important sites on the land it manages, which
includes the 73,000-acre Camp Blanding training grounds
near Starke
.
Tribal representatives at the meeting were given a
tour of Camp Blanding.
Brig. Gen. Jimmy Watson said the tribes have not
identified any important sites on the guard’s property, but
important sites may be found in the future.
Patricia Wickman, historic preservation chair for
See GUARD, page 3
Children Of Children
See ONEVA, page 3
“Captain” Tom Tiger was the second Seminole to meet an US President, see Reflections page 3.
Fifteen Months And A New Life Later
Missy Huff and Candice Fimmer
By Michael James
OKEECHOBEE — On Thursday, May 10th the
Brighton students, grades 6th through 9th, were introduced
to a photograph exhibit and riveting testimonies discussing
an increasing problem facing our youth in this country
today - children having children. This lesson in life began
at a luncheon where guest speakers from the Brighton
community shared with the group their own testimonies of
being teen parents. A Seminole Tribune reporter, who
became a parent at 19, discussed the inability to establish
an identity for himself and how he literally lost his childhood. Instead of going to college, he became a father and
husband working two jobs. He did not return to college
until he was 36 years old. He also spoke about the repercussions of parents who marry at a young age and divorce,
See CHILDREN, page 2
By Michael James
ty and knowledge into power. Her mission remains
BRIGHTON — Fifteen months.... that’s how
steadfast.
long it’s been since Josephine Villa sat down with the
In January 2000, Josephine began the monuSeminole Tribune to tell the grievous story of how her
mental task of getting a new kidney by beginning a batstruggle with diabetes nearly ended her life when she
tery of medical tests that would last nearly six months.
was robbed of the function of her
kidneys and forced to begin life
sustaining dialysis in 1999. For
five days in December 1999 she
underwent lifesaving emergency
dialysis. Her salvation Josephine
told the Tribune was, “God’s way
of telling me that I had a mission
to accomplish.”
It was an unforgettable
interview whose tone and mood
was set by remarkable ambivalence. Fear and courage, despair
and hope, these were the feelings
that presided as Josephine bravely
told her story in the hope that she
could impact others before it was
too late. Back then she was scared,
not for herself but for others
whom she feared might be harboring the misconception that dialysis
was some sort of alternative that
could be consciously opted for as
Josephine Villa with daughter Micki.
an alternative to good diabetes
management. Then and now dialysis remains in her own words. “painful, just awful, a last
The tests would determine if she could be an organ
resort that should be avoided at all costs.”
recipient. There were tests on her heart, her lungs, and
Today, the pain is gone for Josephine thanks to
indeed all organ systems of her body. She even had a
a new kidney and her uncommon ability to turn adversiSee VILLA, page 4
Keep Hoof And
Mouth Disease
Out Of Florida
By Tommy Benn
TALLAHASSEE — The United
States has regulations to prevent the introduction of Hoof and Mouth Disease into
her boundaries but so did many currently
affected countries. HMD has been diagnosed in 34 countries in the past 18
months. The latest outbreaks were reported in Great Britain, Northern Ireland,
Argentina and France. The only continents free of the disease are North
America, Australia and the Antarctica.
All cloven-hoofed animals are
susceptible. In Florida those include
domesticated cattle, sheep, goats, pigs,
and buffalo. Wildlife, both exotic and
native Florida species, are suspect.
If you suspect a disease problem,
report it immediately to a veterinarian or
an animal health officer. Early detection
of HMD is critical; the virus is fast
spreading. More than likely 100 percent
of animals in an exposed herd will
become ill; younger animals are more
susceptible to death than older animals.
Inspect your animals daily for
tell-tale signs of HMD blisters around the
mouth and muzzle, which cause slobbering and drooling. Raw patches or ulcers
and sores may develop around the animal’s utter causing mastitis; blisters on
the feet will cause lameness. Infected animals will not drink, eat or walk and will
lose weight rapidly. Cattle and swine will
show signs of HMD within two to seven
days. Sheep and goats may only show
See HOOF, page 13
The Seminole Tribune
2
May 25, 2001
Editorial
It’s prom time again, and young students are out there
‘having fun’ – doing the things that young people do these days.
Even kids that do not use drugs or drink are still at risk, because
there are a greater number of those out there who do. Those are
the people who are going to be at the wheel, and who will be
sharing the roads with your kids. Each year throughout the
United States, young people are killed on their prom night
through either reckless behavior on their part or on the part of
others – as well as at the hands of a drunk driver.
Through the years, young people have become more
aware of the dangers of prom night and have taken measures to
ensure their safety. Some prom goers even pool their resources
and hire a limo. At approximately $40 per hour, it is a small
price to pay for peace of mind. Others select a “designated driver” – someone who they can depend on to stay sober throughout
the evening. Even with these precautionary measures, tragedy
still occurs on prom night, but all attempts by everyone to do
their part have greatly reduced the number of deaths in recent
years.
Many years ago, Abigail Van Buren (“Dear Abby”)
printed a piece in her column about a young person who had
tragically died in a senseless car accident. It has been reprinted with her permission through the years, and has had a tremendous
impact on readers everywhere. It goes as follows:
Please, God, I’m on 17
The day I died was an ordinary school day. How I wish
I had taken the bus! But I was too cool for the bus. I remember
how I wheedled the car out of Mom. “Special favor,” I pleaded. “All the kids drive!’
When the 2:50 bell rang, I threw all my books in the
locker. I was free until 8:40 tomorrow morning. I ran to the parking lot, excited at the thought of driving a car and being my own
boss. Free!
It doesn’t matter how the accident happened. I was
goofing off – going too fast – taking crazy chances. But I was
enjoying my freedom and having fun. The last thing I remembered was passing an old lady who seemed to be going too slow.
I heard a deafening crash and felt a terrible jolt. Glass and steel
flew everywhere. My whole body seemed to be turning inside
out. I heard myself scream.
Suddenly I awakened; it was very quiet, and a police
officer was standing over me. Then I saw a doctor. My body was
mangled and saturated with blood. Pieces of jagged glass were
sticking out all over. Strange, that I couldn’t feel anything.
Hey! Don’t pull that sheet over my head! I can’t be
dead. I’m only 17. I have a date tonight. I’m supposed to grow
up and have a wonderful life – and I haven’t even lived yet: I
can’t be dead!
Later, I was placed in a drawer at the morgue. My folks
have to identify me. Why did they have to see me like this? Why
did I have to look at Mom’s eyes when she had to face the most
terrible ordeal of her life? Dad suddenly looked like an old man.
He told the man in charge, “Yes, he is my son.”
The funeral was a weird experience. I saw all my relatives and friends walk toward the casket. They passed by, one by
one, and looked at me with the saddest eyes I’ve ever seen.
Some of my buddies were crying. A few of the girls touched my
hand and sobbed as they walked away.
Please! – Somebody! – Wake me up! Get me out of
here! I can’t bear to see my mom and dad so broken up. My
grandparents are so racked with grief they can hardly walk. My
brother and sisters are like zombies – they move like robots. In a
daze, everybody! No one can believe it, either.
Please don’t bury me – I’m not dead! I have a lot of living to do! I want to laugh and run again. I want to sing and
dance. Please don’t put me in the cold, dark ground! I promise if
you give me just one more chance, God, I’ll be the most careful
driver in the whole world. All I want is one more chance.
Please, God, I’m only 17!
Although this story will touch the hearts of those who
read it – as it always does, unfortunately, some of those will not
heed the warnings and will meet a similar demise. The article is
old – written long before crack cocaine, ecstasy, acid and the
myriad of other “designer drugs” became the main attraction at
teen functions. Today, parents have to worry - not only about
drinking and driving – but about all the other stuff kids are into.
There is no sure fire way to protect your children, but
let them know over and over again – until you are both blue in
the face - how important it is for them to exercise caution. Let
them know you care – and remind them of the good life that lies
ahead for them to enjoy – a life you want to share with them for
a long, long time.
— Barbara Secody is a freelance writer for the
Seminole Tribune
letters/e-mail
6300 Stirling Rd. Hollywood. FL 33024
Dear Mr. Billie,
We were glad we could help in a
small way with your canoe presentation at
Eastside High School in Gainesville on
March 29, and we were honored by your
visit to the Florida Museum of Natural
History to see the Hall of South Florida
People and Environments, which will
open to the public in 2002.
During your visit, you mentioned
that the thatching job on a structure in one
of our exhibits “would not hold water”
(reported in Seminole Tribune, April 13).
Museum exhibit coordinator Darcie
MacMahon and I spoke to our thatchers
about the style they had chosen to make
sure they had good reasons.
They learned the “weaving” style
(weaving the palm leaves around the
purlins) from the Maya people in the
Yucatan, who use the style whenever nails
are not available. It result in a tighter,
thicker thatch (50 % more palm leaves are
used) and water does not permeate the
thickness of the thatch. The “S-curve” of
the woven stems is very strong and resists
wind better than the straight-stem style.
They say even resort hotels use this
woven style on large structures that are
placed on windy beaches.
Because the structure in our
exhibit is supposed to represent a Calusa
Indian house of the 1500s, the thatchers
knew it would have been built without
nails, so that’s why they used the “nonail” style favored by Mayan people
instead of the modern Seminole style.
We appreciated your visit and
your comments, and we hope you will
come back to see the exhibit when it is
completed next year.
Sincerely,
William H. Marquardt
Curator in Archaeology
Dear Editor:
The story of the Seminoles found
on Andros is Hollywood (industry) material.
There is a dramatic story, plots,
and much more that creates a great motion
picture, if handled properly. Such a
motion picture would definitely draw
great attention to the Seminole Tribe, its
history, and attractions.
I was very much drawn by the
story, although I have read much about
the Seminoles, in English and Russian.
Imagine the effect on those Americans,
Asians, and Europeans who do not know
much about the Seminoles (or know nothing), and then see a movies that tells the
story of Native Americans escaping tyranny; pirates, seafaring, storms, adventures,
new land, struggles, tragedies, triumphs.
The movies should also tell about the
Seminole history in Florida; this is the
story of those who had remained, their
wars against the invaders, their victories.
I am glad to read the Tribune
after an absence due to some projects that
kept me very busy. As one of many
Russian-Americans, who read the story of
the Seminoles in Cpt. Mein Reid’s wonderful book, I wish the Tribe well, and
hope to visit again and again.
Paul Stonehill
California
Dear Seminole Tribe;
I was just wondering what did
you all eat in the swamp?
Jody Kay
[email protected]
Dear Jodi-Kay;
We ate plenty of garfish, mud-
[email protected]
fish, bass, bream and turtles from the
canals. Vegetables we grew in our gardens such as pumpkin, corn, beans,
sweet potatoes, etc. We also survived off
the deer, bear, panther, wild hogs, rabbit
or squirrel. As well as many swamp
birds; wood ibis, curlew, anhingas.
Paul Buster (Cowbone)
Editor,
My name is Larry Rempala. I am
a Boy Scout leader that is involoved in the
Order of the Arrow(Elgixin Chapter). We
are a sub-organization of honored campers
that tries to follow the ways of American
Indians. Being from Florida we are mostly
interested in the Seminole Tribe. Many of
our boys make their own Seminole patch
work type long shirts and dance in competition. They have won many regional
competitions. I was wondering if there are
videos available of Seminole Stomp
Dance or other dances available for viewing by non-Indians so our scouts can polish their skills and stay fresh in thier
dance. Thank you.
Larry Rempala
[email protected]
You can contact Seminole
Braodcasting at 954-967-3417, Library at
954-989-6840 and ask for Diane Diaz at
ext. 1225 or Peggy Davis at the Museum
at 954-792-0745.
Editor,
Hello my name is Antonio Vindel
and I would like to get your position on
the following topic; I understand there is
an ongoing debate as to the offending
nature of sports nicknames such as,
Indians, Redskins, etc. I thought I’d
research it by asking your opinion on the
matter. I would like to hear arguments on
both sides of the issue from Native
Americans and their reasons for taking
offense or feeling indifferent perhaps
because some may feel there are better
causes to address. Your opinions will be
most gratefully received. Thank you.
Antonio Vindel
[email protected]
I personally don’t feel any
offense or any bitterness towards the use
of Native American names, as long as it
is used within reason!
“Cowbone”
Editor,
Hi this is Katie G. and I’m doing
a research project on the Tribe and I was
wondering if you have any information on
what Tribal homes look like and what
they use to build them.
Katie Grant
[email protected]
Most of the Tribal members live
in modern (cbs) homes today. But, thirty
years ago or earlier most all of the
Seminole lived in chickees (thatched roof
huts).
Chickees are made from Cypress
wood for the frame or structure and
topped with palmetto fronds from the
Sabal palm tree. The frame is nailed
together and the fronds are tacked onto
the wood with smaller nails. Hope this
helps you.
“Cowbone”
Editor,
My dog, Coby has an open
wound which is through the skin on his
right upper front paw. The wound is getting larger and he is limping. He’s had it
for 9 months. I have tried head gear (like
a lamp shade), antibiotics, hot pepper, bitter herbs, electric shock with a charged
collar each time he started to chew, bandages, creams, etc. Nothing keeps him
from chewing on it. There are no evident
ticks, ant bites, etc. We are in Orlando,
Florida. Have you any advice? Can you
refer a Native American Animal Doctor or
Shaman? Thank you for showing compassion.
Clark (Flying Eagle-Manitou)
McClelland, Honorary
Member
Lakota Sioux Nation
[email protected]
My dad used to use an old
Indian medicine to remedy the wound.
The medicine was first used for humans
(Seminoles) during war times in the
early 1800’s. When the men were injured
the medicine was concocted and applied.
I saw my dad perform that medicine on my dog, which accidentially got
shot during a hunt.
But, other than that I really
have no advice except we used to use a
motor oil (well used) on the affected area
on the dog - maybe it might help, but
don’t hold it against me.
“Cowbone”
Editor,
Does the Seminole Tribe have
any legends of dangerous animals or
Deities? Something to scare children. I’m
currently writing a fictional novel, and it
takes place in Florida. I would never want
to offend you by misrepresenting your
beliefs or traditions. Also, I am not planning to write something silly about a
Native American legend coming to pass
and taking out it’s vengeance, that’s been
done too many times with poor results
(my opinion).
Richard P. Buoye
[email protected]
Most of our stories and legends
are told to our children. The stories are
not told to scare anyone; there may be
some stories that might get the children
to quiet down and retire for the evening.
Our stories and legends are told
in Miccosukee language, it can be translated to English, but, it doesn’t really
have any punch to it. It’s not as dramatic
or it’s not as humorous. No wonder we
can’t have any fun in English.
“Cowbone”
Editor,
Can you discribe the hunting,
fishing and farming? What did they typically eat? What did they do for recreation
activities, crafts and games in the 1700’s?
[email protected]
Hunting - get a rifle and some
ammunition, go out in the woods where
you would most likely see an animal.
Fishing - If you have a boat and fishing
gear (gig) you go out to ponds or waterways.
Farming - farm tractors and
equipment would come in handy and a
good fertile land. Before such was available hand made tools were used in our
gardens.
Of the many wildlife that were
part of our menu were; Wood ibis, Water
turkey, Ironheads, garfish, turtles, mudfish.
Crafts - learning to either sew,
beadwork, basketry or woodcarving.
“Cowbone”
Oosha nit oogen kahum pahshim (otter playing in water)
Children
Continued from page 1
and the impact that decision has on the
children. Jo Johns, Youth Coordinator at
Brighton, spoke about the loss of freedom
and how your life becomes entirely about
your children. She emphasizes that she
has no regrets, but it is very, very difficult
at a young age. Dianne Smith, who
became a parent at 15, also described her
life at that time and how difficult it was
being a teen mother. Preston Baker, who
became a father at 20, and dearly loves
children, spoke and commented that he
never thought he would be a speaker discussing teen parenthood. From a different
perspective, Rita Gopher who became a
mother at 25 also explained the difficulties of being an older mother. The message is taking responsibility, protecting
yourself and having protected sex.
Photographer Michael Nye is an
artist whose candid portraits reveal the
intense and often poignant lives of his
subjects. His passion for photography
has taken him around the world recording images of men, women and children from troubled and impoverished
areas in Siberia, Mexico, Iraq, China
and elsewhere. He is an attorney who
received his Doctor of Jurisprudence in
1977 and practiced law for 7 years
before deciding to pursue photography
full time in 1984. His Children of
Children, Portraits and Stories of
Teenage Parents introduces individuals
ranging in age from 12 to 100 whose
lives have been effected by teenage
pregnancy. The powerful exhibit features 50 black and white portraits
accompanied by audio stories, narrated
by the individual in the photograph.
Children of Children does not condemn, condone, or romanticize teenage
pregnancy; rather it explores the realities of teenage pregnancy and parenting in our society.
Frozen in time, the images
capture a significant life altering
moment as the subjects appear in the
camera’s eye and ask you to understand. The photographs are more than
static images. An audio narrative
recorded by the person in the photo,
drawing you into his or her life accompanies each. In simple and eloquent detail,
these narratives address many of the complex issues-family, culture, religion, trust,
money, poverty, guilt, abuse, responsibility, support and education-just to name a
few
Teen pregnancy is not a simple
issue of good or bad, right or wrong, do
or don’t. It is a very complex issue that
involves many people, events and decisions. The statistics in this country are
staggering. The United States has the
highest rates of teen pregnancy and births
in the Western industrialized world. Teen
pregnancy costs at least $7 billion each
year due to medical and health care costs,
incarceration expenses, public assistance,
foster care, social services, childcare costs
and education. Florida alone spent almost
$2.5 billion on expenditures to support
families begun by teens, but only $11.5
million on investments to prevent pregnancy. Imagine if that money were available for other things...education, housing,
job training, medical research or crime
prevention.
In Okeechobee County from
1997 to 1999, 312 young women ages 1519 became mothers. For the same 3 years,
6 new mothers from Okeechobee were
age 14 or under. Twenty-three of these
teen mothers gave birth for a second time
within their teen years. In 1997-1999,
13.26% of Okeechobee’s total births were
to teens under the age of 19.
The consequences of teen pregnancy are about more than money and
costs involved. When a child is born to an
adolescent, life is often more difficult for
the child and the parents. Teen mothers
and fathers are often ill equipped physically or financially to bear and nurture
healthy children.
Compared to mothers who delay
childbearing until age 20 or 21 mothers
age 17 and younger spend more time as
single parents, are less likely to complete
high school and go on to college and are
more likely to rely on public assistance or
work in low paying jobs. Children born to
teen mothers are more likely to be born
prematurely and be of low birth weight,
have childhood problems, be abused or
neglected and do poorly in school.
Children of adolescent parents
receive less medical care, are less likely
to complete high school, live in homes of
poorer quality than children of older parents, and daughters of teen mothers are
more likely to become teen mothers themselves.
Many factors contribute to teen
childbearing. Research and experience
have identified some key factors: Poverty,
most teen parents are from low-income
Michael James
*Barbara Secody
Virginia Mitchell
“Please God, I’m only 17”
Rita Gopher giving her testimony.
families or live in areas of poverty;
School performance, poor academic performance is often a precursor to teen
pregnancy. Many teens drop out of school
before they become pregnant. Family
background is also a key factor. Children
of teen mothers are more likely to become
teen parents. Siblings of teen parents are
more likely to become teen parents.
Family background of domestic
violence, substance abuse or divorce can
increase the risk of teen pregnancy. Also
sexual abuse or victimization links teen
pregnancy, especially in cases of sexual
pressure or sexual coercion. Teen use of
alcohol, drugs and tobacco is also associated with sexual risk taking. Youth with
behavior problems and those who are
homeless incarcerated or in foster care
have high rates of early pregnancy. A key
factor is the lack of knowledge. Teens
often do not have the information or support systems to delay sexual activity.
Finally, peer pressure. Many teen feel
pressured by their friends and peers to
become sexually active.
The choice to become a statistic
is a result of the choices people make.
Life is full of changes, disappointments,
decisions, frustrations and opportunities to
make mistakes. However, everyone can
avoid mistakes...at least a lot of mistakes,
as well as the pain that follows. Make a
conscious choice to live happy, healthy
and fulfilling lives. If you are faced with
any of these factors, there is help for you.
Seek help, get smart, and stay healthy.
Most of all discuss your situation.
Carefully examine the consequences of
the choices you make.
Remember prevention is the key.
Above all. Love and Respect Yourself!
Seminole Tribune
Publisher: James E. Billie
Director: Dr. Betty Mae Jumper
Editor: Virginia Mitchell
Design/Layout: Melissa Sherman
Design/Layout Assistant: Vanessa Frank
Freelance Designer: Stephen Galla
Reporters: Libby Blake
Archivist: Ernie Tiger
Contributors: Tommy Benn, Janice Billie,
Jessica Cattelino
Suzanne Davis, Diane Diaz, E. Bowers
Bob Kippenberger (Photos)
Brian Larney (Design), Mark Madrid,
Gary Padgett, Rhonda Roff,
Benny Secody,
Patsy West, Dr. Patricia R. Wickman
The Seminole Tribune
is a member of the Native American
Journalists Association, the Florida
Press Club and the Associated Press.
Letters/e-mails to the Editor must be
signed and may be edited for publication. Subscription rate is $25 per year
by mail. Make checks payable to The
Seminole Tribune, 6300 Stirling Rd.,
Hollywood, FL 33024. Phone: (954)
967-3416. Fax: (954) 967-3482. Or
subscribe on the Internet at
www.seminoletribe.com
© Seminole Tribe of Florida
3
R e f l e c t i o n s
B y
P a t s y
W e s t
“Captain” Tom Tiger Was Second
Seminole To Meet An US President
om Tiger, or “Captain” Tom Tiger as he was most often
called, was a well-known Seminole in the Kissimmee area.
The authoress Minnie Moore-Willson was a great fan of
his and provided interesting anecdotal information on his life in
The Seminoles of Florida published in 1896.Tom was a Wildcat
clan member, Grandfather to Agnes and Mary Parker, Betty Mae
and Howard Tiger (Snake clan).
Recently, due to the diligent efforts of historian Dr. Joe
Knetsch, I was forwarded a microfilmed newspaper article which
provided a piece of relatively unknown information involving
Tom Tiger, just in time to be included in Betty Mae Jumper’s
publication: A Seminole Legend: The Life of Betty Mae Tiger
Jumper by Betty Mae Jumper and Patsy West (University Press
of Florida, Fall 2001).
Southern Florida’s first efforts into draining off the shallow Everglades system began in the Kissimmee area. There in
April 1883, United States President Chester A. Arthur visited and
was wined and dined on the newly refurbished river boat the
“Okeechobee” by an official of the Okeechobee Land and
Improvement Company. Two years earlier, the OLIC had
received permission from the State of Florida to reclaim a tract
of submerged land totaling 12 million acres in Polk, Brevard,
Manatee, Monroe and Dade Counties (these are the old, larger
counties prior to the creation of others that exist today). The land
to be reclaimed was larger than the states of Rhode Island,
Connecticut, New Jersey, and Maryland.
The agenda was to explain Florida’s revolutionary
drainage program to the President. Was he a possible investor?
The news article enthusiastically noted of the drainage project,
“If successful, as it promises to be, it will make the men who are
interested in it rich!” The drainage would provide for the cultiva-
T
tion of “sugar cane, rice, oranges and other fruit.” Drainage
would also create new pastures for the State’s cattle interests
which at that time, provided for a large Cuban market in beeves,
including “fighting bulls for the arenas of Havana.” Many of the
company’s stockholders were Philadelphians others were from
England. The President was told that settlers coming from Iowa
were prepared to begin the cultivation of sugarcane on parts of
the newly reclaimed land.
The smaller boat the “Mary Belle” full of reporters followed the President’s party on the “Okeechobee”. The steamer
“Gertrude” provided wood fuel for the “Okeechobee.” Through
natural channels, lakes, and drainage channels cut by the
Improvement Company’s dredges, the party made their way
southwards towards
Lake Okeechobee. Because of the newly dredged waterway, a boat 100 feet long and 22 feet wide was being built to
make the run from Kissimmee City to Lake Okeechobee.
The President’s party made a landing at Fort Gardner
“as it was learned that some Indians were expecting the
President’s arrival.” It was Captain Tom Tiger and his two wives,
Mary and Mollie who met the boat. Tom smoked a cigar with the
President and accepted a jack knife from the Secretary of the
Navy. The President gave Tom’s baby (doubtless one of Ada
Tiger’s older brothers) 25 cents. While communication was at a
minimum, this meeting appears to have been the first between a
Florida Seminole and the President of the United States since the
1852 when Billy Bowlegs visited Washington, D. C. on his trip
to New York City as the guest of a “removal expert” prior to the
onset of the Third Seminole War in 1855.
— Reflection Number 189
May 25, 2001
Protecting Special Places,
Protecting Our Heritage
By Tommy Benn
Executive Director and Karen Ware hold
MIAMI — Eight National
down the office activities of the ten-yearConference of the National Tribal
old organization. Growing every year we
Environmental Council was
strive to keep our membership aware of
hosted by the Miccosukee Tribe of Florida all the “HOT ISSUES” quoted Ms. Ware
at their Hotel and
we can be located on
Gaming Resort, in late
our web site at
April
www.ntec.org. Or
The main
general email:
objective of the
[email protected] Ms.
National Tribal
Ware and Mr.
Environmental
Pardilla both reside
Counsel is to enhance
in Albuquerque,
each tribe’s ability to
New Mexico
protect, preserve and
Becky Buster
promote the wise manand staff have done
agement of air land
an unbelievable job
and water for the benas our host. Billy
efit of present and
Cypress really rolled
future generations.
out the carpet.
Founded in
Touring both the
1991 the counsel was
Miccosukee and
formed by seven
Seminole Museum
tribes. Today’s memairboat rides Billie
bership record is 163
Swamp Safari it has
tribes strong. All dedibeen a most enjoycated to working and
able stay. The meal
Karen Ware office manager and
assisting tribes in the
that featured both
Executive Director Jerry Pardilla.
protection of tribal
Seminole and
lands. With Alaska and
Miccosukee cuisine
California having the most tribes enrolled. was extremely enjoyable too. The enterNative American have always
tainment with James Billie’s “Alligator
held the land air and water in reverence
Tales” was another high light of the conand are striving hard to protect the enviference. Sincere thanks to all those who
ronment even more today.
made our stay a memorable one.
Jerry Pardilla is the organizations
Tommy Benn
The Seminole Tribune
Seniors Mothers Day Celebration Florida Panthers
lunch of fried chicken and all the
fixings. Gifts that included towels,
sewing boxes, decorative jars were
distributed to the mothers in the
group.
Site Manager, Mary Lou
Cypress organized and facilitated
the gathering. She said it was well
worth all the effort to see the seniors come over and enjoy the special occasion. She thanked
Councilman David Cypress for providing the gifts and lunch.
Numbers Increase
Janice Billie
By Janice Billie
BIG CYPRESS — The
beloved Seniors of the Big Cypress
community gathered at the Henry
Osceola Senior Citizens Building to
celebrate Mother’s Day on May 11.
From 10 a.m. until 1 p.m. they listened to gospel music provided by
Jonah Cypress, Noah Jim and Joe
Billie. Ruby Osceola and Sadie
Cypress joined in and sang several
hymns with the band. Along with
the music the seniors were served a
Agnes Cypress and Susie Billie on Mothers Day.
Oneva
Continued from page 1
Directors. She also commended Oneva for
a job well done and for her long term dedication. “She was always there and would
do anything you asked her to do, just
extremely dependable,” remarked
Carolyn. Brighton Board Representative,
Alex Johns awarded her a trip to Hawaii
for two in appreciation for serving the
Seminole Tribe for so many years.
When asked how she came to
work for Cattle and Range Oneva says, “It
was back around 1987 after my son Neil
was born. My brother Fred Smith was
President of the Board of Directors at that
time and one day he called me up and
asked if I would come over and answer
the phones because everyone was going to
Corn Dance and someone needed to be
there. I thought it was just for the day or a
couple of days at the most but it turned
out to be 23 years!”
As for her future plans Oneva
says she’s considering a part time job as
the cultural language teacher at the preschool but has no definite plans. She
wants to enjoy the days as they come and
“just take it easy.”
Entering Into Fourth Year Of Drought
By Tommy Benn
TALLAHASSEE — With this being the fourth season
of uncommon drought the losses to Florida cattle
ranchers and farmers are recorded in the millions of dollars. An
estimated $600 million of loss in the past four years due to the
states prolonged drought.
The biggest losses have been in field crops, corn, cotton, peanuts, soybeans, and hay. These field crops are mostly
grown in Northern Florida, and the Panhandle areas of the state.
Many of the farms in this region of the state are without irrigation systems. Decline in sales of nearly $300 million dollars
reached in 1996 has hit these growers hard over the past four
years. Farmers with irrigation systems are finding it too expen-
sive to plant and harvest a crop. Due to the cost of running
pumps, etc. as the price of fuel is skyrocketing out of sight too.
Crop losses and declining sales have effected other
Florida producers and their annual income. Attributable to the
prolonged drought includes Citrus some $85 million, Pasture $80
million, livestock $45 million in losses, vegetables / truck crops
$40 million and watermelon sales have dropped $36 million over
the past four years.
Locally Lake Okeechobee out major water reserve is at
its lowest level point in over 35 years at less than 10 foot. A tall
man could possibly walk across the 38-mile wide lake without
much trouble.
Big Cypress Swine Club
BIG CYPRESS — Amidst the
standing room only crowd and received
busy campaign speeches and dinners on
her plaque also.
each of the Seminole Tribal
They had grilled T-bone
reservations, children and
steaks, chicken and many,
parents at Big Cypress had
many sides that the paran appreciation dinner for
ents brought. Everyone
Benny and Robin Hernandez
had their fill and then
for the toil and hard work
some. Many filled their
that they’ve shown for the
plates again to take home
Big Cypress community on
for future reference.
Saturday, May 12, 2001.
Cowbone band flew in
Benny gave an outfor the occasion and perstanding speech as he
formed its top hits since
received his beautiful plaque
last millennium for the
for his untiring service to the
attendees’ enjoyment.
community.
Songs like “Gator
Robin was speechCountry Blues,” a song
less due to overwhelming
that was inspired by
C
OWBONE
applause and a standing ovaOsceola from the 1800’s,
tion, yet she made her way through the
“I Caught that Wild Hog” is another of
many songs that was performed that afternoon.
Amongst all the excitement in
the afternoon, accolades, worthy praises
and a pat on the back went to Cecilia
Tigertail for unselfishly working hard to
promote this appreciation dinner to
deserving people in the Big Cypress community.
Fruits of these people are already
prevalent among the children of Big
Cypress and we commend you for your
untiring labor of love. Also, many thanks
to parents who are involved with this program. Keep doing this wonderful work
that you have dedicated yourself to fulfill.
You are appreciated very much!
Sho na bay sha
Hem mung ala ka
Cowbone
The Fish and Wildlife
Conservation Commission (FWC) has
tasted victory in its battle to save the
Florida panther from extinction, but not
without some costs. So far, wildlife biologists have suffered serious scratches and
bite wounds to their hands and feet — not
to mention sprained ankles; heads
slammed against trees one dislocated
shoulder and torn ligaments.
“This is a pretty rough way to
earn a living sometimes,” said Darrell
Land, head of the FWC’s panther field
research efforts in south Florida. “But it
has its rewards. There is definitely more
Florida panthers today than there were
when we first started this fieldwork back
in the early `80s. It’s a good feeling to
know we have helped reverse the decline
in the cats’ population.” Land said
researchers now estimate the Florida panther population at 60-70 animals. Twenty
years ago, the estimate was closer to 30.
FWC scientists use tranquilizer
guns to immobilize adult panthers so they
can take tissue samples and fit the animals with radio collars that enable
researchers to track the animals’ movements and behavior. That’s when most of
the injuries happen. In fact, the cats sometimes are injured too. Last November and
again in April, cats sustained broken legs,
possibly during capture operations, and
had to be removed from the wild temporarily for treatment and rehabilitation.
The cat that was injured in April is recovering at Lowry Park Zoo at Tampa, where
it will remain for two months. Also one
cat died during the early 80’s when a tranquilizer dart struck an artery and released
the tranquilizer drug into the animal’s
body too rapidly.
“There were two other cats that
seemed okay after the capture but turned
up dead a short time later,” Land said.
“As unfortunate as that is, it’s not a bad
record, considering we’ve performed this
capture procedure 261 times on 104 different cats. We know there are risks to the
cats and risks to the researchers, but the
benefits definitely outweigh the risks.”
The FWC has developed special
capture equipment and has a wildlife veterinarian at all panther captures to keep
risks to a minimum for the endangered
species. Currently, Land said, researchers
are focusing their efforts on taking tissue
samples from kittens in the dens, while
the mother cats are away.
“We can take tissue samples and
gather genetic information from 2-weekold kittens without having to tranquilize
them or risk injuries,” Land said. “We’ve
also placed computer chips under the skin
of 94 kittens. Those chips enable us to
identify the individual animals when we
encounter them again later. We know
where the animal came from, who its parents were and who its offspring and siblings are.” Land said that by marking the
kittens early, scientists decrease the need
to tranquilize and collar them as adult
cats.
During the past few years, scientists have released eight female Texas
cougars into the wild in south Florida to
introduce new genetic material into the
seriously inbred panther population. Three
of the cougars are still alive, and one of
them recently bore a litter of two kittens.
The Texas cats and their offspring are more energetic during captures.
Unlike the pure Florida cats, which tend
to climb a tree and remain in it when pursued, they tend to climb down one tree
and up another, and sometimes leap from
tree to tree during the pursuit.
“Both of the cats that broke their
legs were offspring of the Texas cats,”
Land said. Thirty-six panthers and three
Texas cougars are wearing functional
radio collars at the moment. Ten others
have collars that no longer transmit radio
signals. This is very exciting news for
Seminole tribal members. Jo Johns,
Brighton Youth Coordinator, finds it very
good news. “This is great news that their
trying to preserve them and their numbers
are climbing. Panthers are an important
part of Florida’s history.” At different
times you can see the panthers on the Big
Cypress Reserve, “they are doing their
best to keep them off the highways”, says
Johns.
SMALL BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION
(SBA) WORKSHOP
JUNE 19, 2001
HOLLYWOOD RESERVATION – AUDITORIUM
10:00 A.M. – 2:00 P.M.
The Small Business Administration (SBA) in conjunction with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (COE) is
conducting a workshop to assist American Indian and tribally owned and operated businesses in SBA certification. The
workshop will discuss Indian Incentive Programs, provide
and instruct on financing and loan programs, among other
incentive and assistance programs.
Businesses that may be interested in bidding on or
subcontracting to perspective bidders for work involved
with the future construction of the Big Cypress Water
Conservation Plan – East Conveyance Canal are encouraged
to participate/ attend. Construction practices for this project
may include but not be limited to the following:
Surveying, Canal excavation/dike formation, Pump
station design/installation, Water control structure construction/installation, Road construction. For additional information please contact Patti Lodge, Water Resource
Management Department, 800-683-7800, ext. 1121.
Tribal and FLARNG representatives surveyed Camp Blanding, the Guard’s principal training
area, from the seats of a Blackhawk helicopter. Shown (L-R) are: Asst. – Adj. Gen. Jimmy
Watson, FLARNG; Col. Jeff Heatherington, FLARNG, Operations Manager; Alan Cook, representing Alabama-Quassarte Tribe (OK); Treva Johns, FLARNG; Joyce Bear, HPO, Muscogee
(Creek) Nation (OK); Kirk Perry, Chicksaw Nation (OK); Patricia R. Wickman, HPO,
Seminole Tribe of Florida; Rena Duncan, HPO, Chicksaw Nation (OK); Owell Sapulpa, representing Alabama-Quassarte Tribe (OK); Emmon Spain, Seminole Nation (OK); Keller George,
President, USET; and Ted Underwood, HPO, Seminole Nation (OK).
Guard
Continued from page 1
the Seminole Tribe of Florida, said Native
Americans have been in the area for the
past 12,000 years, and there is a high
probability of finding something.
In the consultations, the tribes
gave their inputs as to what types of sites
are important to American Indians and
how to protect them. With that information, the guard will develop a cultural
resource management plan and meet with
the tribes again in September.
The plan, among other things,
will outline the procedures for protecting
a site when one is identified. “They’ve
got to tell us whether or not they consider
whatever is found to be important to
them,” Hetherington said.
In order to protect cultural sites
Wickman said it is important for the people in the guard to know what to do and
who to call when one is identified. She
also said an officer with the power to stop
a project needs to be accessible.
When a site is identified, the
guard will contact the tribes and tell them
about the find
Tribal representatives at the consultations said the meetings were productive, and Wickman said the guard seemed
genuine in its efforts to work with the
tribes.
“The Florida National Guard did
Florida well,” Wickman said.
The Seminole Tribune
4
May 25, 2001
Community News
3rd Grade-Punctuality- Michael Osceola,
Alfred Billie. A Honor Roll–Clayton Hall. B Honor
Roll-Rubi-Anne Alexander. Most Improved-Jon Ross
Billie.
4th Grade- Punctuality-Aaron Cypress,
Cody Billie. A Honor Roll-Alyssa Lauren Bowers. B
Honor Roll-James Micco Billie II, Cody Billie, Aaron
Cypress. Improved Math-Ronnie Billie.
5th Grade-Perfect Attendance-Dawna
Cypress. Punctuality-Dawna Cypress, Tiffany Billie,
and Stephanie Hall. A Honor Roll-Stephanie Hall,
Dawna Cypress, Ryan Cypress. B Honor RollKatrina Bettelyoun, Alex Cypress, Serena Green,
Tiffany Billie, Herschel Frank, Kayla Bowers.
6th Grade-Perfect Attendance-Klaressa
Osceola. Punctuality-Heather Billie, Benny
Hernandez, Klaressa Osceola, Sawena Otero,
Kaylynn Pewo. A Honor Roll-Klaressa Osceola. B
Honor Roll-Summer Billie.
7th and 8th Grades-Perfect Attendance-Paige
Osceola, Jessalyn Balentine, Jodi Simone, Victoria
Hernandez, Talisha Leach, Meredith Bullard.
Punctuality-Little Tiger Balentine, Paige Osceola,
Jessalyn Balentine, Victoria Hernandez, Jodi Simone,
Meredith Bullard. B Honor Roll-Little Tiger
Balentine, Paige Osceola.
High School-Perfect Attendance-Wilson
Bowers, Lindsey King. Punctuality-Wilson Bowers,
Lindsey King, Daniel Bullard. B Honor Roll-Daniel
Bullard Lindsey King.
Start At the Library And Go Anywhere
Submitted by Debbie Johns and
Diane Diaz
Are you looking for
something to do this summer?
Nothing planned? Don’t sit
around being bored. You can
start at the Billy Osceola
Library and go anywhere.
This summer you can get
wild with animals traveling
with us to the chimpanzee
and orangutan conservation
area, unravel a mystery, get
your socks scared off, hear a
tale, laugh a lot, take flights
of fantasy, surf the Internet,
and join a western roundup.
So let the journey begin, not
only in Brighton, but also at
all the Seminole libraries.
You can also “go
anywhere” at the Hollywood
Dorothy Scott Osceola
Library with paper mache,
clay, painting, chess, puzzles,
poetry, newsletters, cartoon art and
lots of computer lab exploration.
Story times and reading are another important part of library enjoyment during those hot, sticky or
rainy days — sign up for summer
reading soon.
The Brighton,
Immokalee, Tampa and
Hollywood libraries will be open
Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. till
5 p.m., except in Big Cypress 9
a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through
Thursday, 8 a.m. to 5p.m. on
Friday. Look for our summer
schedules soon to be posted on
each reservation for programs
beginning in June. Please call individual libraries for more information:
Big Cypress: (863) 9836724, Brighton: (863) 7635520/4236, Tampa: (813) 6265765, Hollywood: (954) 989-6840
x 1225/1226, Immokalee: (941)
657-3400.
Kids And Peer Pressure
By Michael James
As a kid are you ever faced with tough decisions to make...those especially posed to you from
your friends? Sure, we all are. Do you give in to
your friends, whether it is right or wrong? As you
grow older, you will be faced with some very challenging decisions. Some of those decisions don’t
have a clear right or wrong answer; other decisions
deal with serious dilemmas. For example, should I
cut class, try cigarettes, do drugs or lie to my parents.
Making decisions on your own is a hard
thing to do, but when friends get involved and try to
pressure you one way or another it gets even harder.
When friends your own age try and influence how
you act, this is called peer pressure. Everyone has
had and will have to deal with this...even adults.
A peer is a friend or an acquaintance who
might be the same age as you. You may interact with
them at school, church, or a community activity.
They are key in influencing your life, and whether
you know it or not, their opinion is very important.
You model your style after a peer, your choice of
clothing and actions, and it is only human nature to
listen to them and allow their advice.
Peers can have a positive influence on you
...and a negative influence as well. Positive influences may come from admiring their athletic ability,
musical or artistic talents. Negative influences come
in ways such as your friend trying to get you to cut
class, maybe have a beer with them, try a new trendy
drug or even lie to someone in your family.
Because kids seek their peer’s approval, they
may give into peer pressure...they want to be liked or
fit in, they don’t want to be made fun of so they go
along with the group. The idea that “everyone is
doing it” is the greatest influence and best reason to
go along with them. Don’t do it! If you know what
they are suggesting is wrong or harmful, use your
better judgement and the common sense God gave
you.
Pressure from your friends can be very difficult to resist. Studies have shown how peer pressure
can influence one to change their mind from what he
or she knows is right or wrong. However, these studies have further shown that if someone stands his or
her ground on what they know is right or wrong, the
peer backs down. This principle holds true for anyone
in any age group that is dealing with a peer pressure
situation.
Walking away from peer pressure is hard,
but it can be done. Paying attention to your own feelings and beliefs about what is right or wrong can
save you, as well as give you an inner confidence and
strength that will always help you stand firm. It is a
great feeling to have friends who share your same
values and who will back you when you feel uncomfortable about doing something. It is a greater feeling
when you can also help influence a friend who may
be easily influenced and find themselves in trouble.
Choose your friends wisely. Join a friend if
you see them having difficulty resisting negative
influences. It is powerful for one kid to join another
and say simply, “I’m with you, let’s go.”
If you happen to be faced with peer pressure
by yourself, there are still things you can do. Stay
away from the group you see might be doing something they shouldn’t be doing. Talk to them one on
one. Also find someone you can trust. Talk to your
parents, a teacher, counselor or family member in the
community. Don’t ever feel guilty about revealing
something about a friend that may potentially be
harming them. Your coming forward may actually
save your friend’s life someday. Sharing your feeling
also better prepares you the next time you are faced
with peer pressure.
Teens. . . Everyone Plays a Role
By Michael James
Adolescence can be a confusing time for
both teens and parents as teens undergo many physical and emotional changes. A deep need for love and
acceptance by parents and peers is typical, but too
often teens hide such needs in an effort to act grown
up. Annoying habits such as refusal to wash, poor
manners, and untidy dress are normal ways in which
children try to become independent.
A physical need for extended periods of rest
is normal. Often parents think sleeping late on weekends and during school breaks is a sign of laziness…quite the contrary, most young people need
more rest during this stage than any other stage since
infancy, and too little rest can result in moodiness.
Teens desperately need and want limits set
for them. Their appearance is their problem. Setting
strict standards is very important, and set them when
it is very important to you. When a parent hears, “I’m
the only one who has to.......” check out the rules with
other parents. Pay careful attention to make sure each
rule is reasonable, clear, and enforceable. Always
enforce the rule you as a parent has set. If one of
those characteristics is missing, the potential for conflict increases.
Communication is the most important thing
a parent can establish........an open line of communication. Give your undivided attention when your teen
wants to talk to you. When there is a need to talk,
don’t read, watch TV, fall asleep, or attend to other
tasks. Try to listen calmly, even though there may be
a difference of opinion. Often young people test their
ideas in conversation. To communicate, one must be
willing to listen first and acknowledge their opinions,
even if it is alarming to the parent. Then give your
viewpoints as plainly and honestly as you can.
A parent’s tone of voice in communication is
very important as well. Developing a courteous tone
of voice as opposed to gruffness or abruptness can
prevent hostility. A pleasant tone of voice can pay
great dividends in improving relationships that may
be strained or distant. Avoid making judgements. It is
not necessary for parents to approve all of their teen’s
behaviors, however it is important–very important–to
understand the feelings that are involved.
Keeping an open mind and keeping the door
open on any subject is equally important. Too often
teenagers avoid discussing things that they think may
make their parents or themselves uncomfortable. You
can lose your teen right there. Belittling, humiliating,
and laughing at youngsters can cause deep wounds
and short-circuit or completely eliminate lines of
communication.
Treat all children in the family the same.
Don’t show favoritism. This can and will make a
child feel rejected, unloved and jealous of his or her
siblings. Be fair and most of all consistent. Say nice
things. Often parents focus on the negative or poor
performance of their children.
Holding family meetings is important. Give
the teenagers the feeling they are significant......that
they have a voice when it comes to family affairs or
decisions. These special gatherings offer children the
opportunity to participate in the decisions of the family and to work things out together. When teenagers
become more independent or outspoken, parents may
feel as if they are losing their child. The need for a
teenager to have closeness with their friends outside
of the family is important, it is a normal part of
healthy development.
Friends of Library - Billy Osceola Library, Brighton.
Friends Visits Billy Osceola Library
BRIGHTON — Friends of the Library paid
a visit to the children of Brighton on March 30th.
This was the second year the Friends have shared
their stories and magic with Brighton. The Friends,
dressed as clowns, performed magic tricks and
taught safety tips, such as talking to strangers and fire
safety.
What is the Friends of the Library program?
Friends is a nonprofit organization whose members
share the belief that residents should support their
public library system in many different ways.
The work of Friends is done with the help of many
dedicated, hard
working volunteers.
Friends of the
Library program
was founded in
1971 and has sustained for 20 years.
They have not only
been instrumental in
raising funds for
libraries all over the
state, but have
enhanced the lives
of children through
the many different
programs they offer.
Volunteers are the
driving force behind
the success of the
program and anyone
can become a volunteer. The current
membership is
approximately 265.
Friends clown entertains preschoolers and staff during visit to Brighton Library.
Michael James
By Janice Billie
Big Cypress — Beginning with Pre-k
through high school, Ahfachkee School recognized
and awarded students for attendance, punctuality,
improvement and good grades for the school’s third
quarter grading period. In a ceremony held on May 8,
Principal Patrick Gaffney presented the certificates of
achievement to the following students:
Pre-K-Perfect Attendance–Symphony
Osceola, Levi Billie, Savannah Tiger.
Punctuality–Andre Landin, Levi Billie, Savannah
Tiger, Symphony Osceola, Christian Alexander,
Malari Baker.
Kindergarten-Perfect Attendance-Bradley
Cypress, Tyler Cypress. Punctuality-Ricky Joe
Alumbaugh, Tyler Cypress, Tequesta Tiger,
Christopher Joe Jr., Joey Simone, Rayel Billie.
1st Grade–Perfect Attendance–Tucomah
Robbins. All E’s (Excellent)-Cooper Rivers, Malachi
Baker, Adrienne Cypress, Stevie Billie, Danni Jae
Tommie, Monique Jimmie. All E’s and S’s
(Satisfactory)-Tucomah Robbins, Kane Bettelyoun,
Jalen Cypress, Anthony Ballentine.
2nd Grade–Perfect Attendance–Ryan
Cypress. Punctuality–Ryan Cypress, Daylyn Hall. E
Honor Roll–Catlen Tommie. E’s and S’s Honor
Roll–Daylyn Hall, Myra Bettelyoun, Megan
Bettelyoun, Kaylee Jumper, Darwin Cypress,
Jonathan Robbins, Ryan Cypress, Dannee Billie, and
Ashley Escobar.
Michael James
Ahfachkee Academic Awards
Come Out And Support Graduates
Previous graduates in all their finery are all smiles.
Villa
Continued from page 1
dental examinations to preclude the possibility of
infection from that source during her recovery period
and beyond should she receive a kidney. There was
also the obligatory tissue typing and psychological
evaluations...no stone was left unturned. The majority
of the test was done in Orlando, coupled with the 15
or so hours a week at the dialysis center in
Okeechobee Josephine had very little time for anything else. Josephine’s daughter Jolene Burton was
very supportive and helped her mother throughout
every step of the process.
“The test were finished in May and the
results were sent to TransLife for evaluation by a
board of physicians,” said Josephine.
“I was accepted July 18th and my name
went into the computer. I was supposed to get a beeper so the transplant team at Florida Hospital could
notify me if a kidney became available,” said
Josephine.
“I got a kidney before I got
the beeper,” she added. It was a
Wednesday morning during her dialysis session when the call came.
“At first I was excited and
then worried because both of my
daughters were out of town and my
first impulse was ‘how am I going to
get there’.”
Amidst the flurry of unfolding
events and excitement at the dialysis
center Josephine considered her
options and decided to call her son
Dean Youngblood. Dean would certainly be at work she thought but she
called anyway and by some fluke or
miracle he answered the phone.
“He was very excited and
happy for me,” said Josephine who at
that time was being disconnected from
the dialysis equipment with the news
of her waiting kidney.
Upon arrival at Florida Hospital
Josephine was whisked away to a surgical holding area where one more tissue type assessment was made. Her
thoughts raced in anticipation of the
impending surgery and anxiety
swelled. Josephine, fearing the worst,
caught herself secretly hoping the
organ was not a match at all so she
could leave, avoid the surgery and
return to life on the dialysis routine she
was beginning to grow accustomed to.
Just as she thought she couldn’t take
SEMINOLE COUNTRY — The
Preschools will be having their yearly graduation ceremonies, so please come out and
support the graduates on your reservations.
Let us show them how proud we are of them
for they are our future Tribal leaders!
Brighton will be on Tuesday, May
29, at 6:00 p.m. in the Field Office.
The Big Cypress ceremony will be
on Friday, June 1, 10:00 a.m. at the Cattle
and Range office.
Hollywood festivities will be on
Thursday, May 31, 6:00 p.m. at the Tribal
Office auditorium.
Immokalee is scheduled for
Thursday, May 31, 6:00 p.m. at Immokalee
Community Park located on First Street.
“We’ve been working so hard for
this day, so please come out and watch
us”— Graduates.
any longer a hospital chaplain stopped by and talked
with her and did more to calm her than any pre-op
sedation had done to that point. The next thing she
recalled was waking up in the surgical intensive care
unit.
“I spent 24 hours in there and then I was up
out of bed. I spent 10 more days in a regular room,”
she said.
Today Josephine is back home and working
and enjoying life. Her new kidney is working fine
and the doctor’s visits are getting further and further
apart. She has spent her time readjusting to the freedom she has gained since she no longer has to go to
dialysis. In fact she has gained about 45 days a year
in saved time. She also says that she has developed a
profound appreciation for the simple things in life
and especially her five children and 12 grandchildren.
She never saw the hospital chaplain again
but never far from her faith Josephine says a prayer
every day for the donor and the donors family.
Josephine Villa lives at Brighton community
and is a member of the Bird Clan.
The Seminole Tribune
5
May 25, 2001
Community News
Seminole Casino News
“Our Moment in Time”:
Miccosukee Prom Held At Resort
B. Secody
to more social events than in times gone by,
By Barbara Secody
MICCOSUKEE RESORT – For the many are still shy in one way or another.
Indeed their moment in time has
students of the Miccosukee school, their prom
night was hailed as the school’s social event of come for them – and for them, life is good.
Everyone enjoyed the evening: fun, food and
the year. The gala extravaganza was held at
socialization. They also enjoyed all the attenthe exquisite Miccosukee Resort, located west
tion they drew from tourists who passed by the
of Miami, on the Tamiami Trail at Highway
open door. Tourists were mesmerized by the
27.
colorful patchwork worn by many of the stuThe Miccosukee school, which is
dents, and some of
located within the
the tourists were
Administrative
overwhelmed that
complex on the
they actually got
reservation, proto see and even
vides education to
meet some real
students from pre-K
Indians. The kids
through senior high
were very patient
school.
with the visitors,
Approximately 100
who “asked a lot
students are
of stupid quesenrolled in the
tions,” laughed
school; and most of
one student. The
them - as well as
tourist wanted to
teachers and faculty
know where their
- all feel this is a
teepees were
good thing because
located and why
they are able to
they were not
receive more indiwearing their
vidualized instruc“usual buckskins
tion than those in
dresses.”
the public schools
As the
of Miami.
evening wore on,
On the
some of the stuevening of May 4,
dents retired to
grades five through
their rooms with
12 enjoyed prom
their family or
festivities, which
room mates to get
included a meal fit
out of the high
for a king (and one
heels, suit and ties;
that would have fed
and to just get
an army). A buffet
comfortable.
provided chicken
The Prom
wings, filet mignon,
was a success and
baby back ribs,
everyone – includCaesar salad, baked L-R: Bonnie Williams, Wesley Frank and
Valerie Frank.
ing the teachers
potato, macaroni
and staff enjoyed
and cheese,
themselves. It was questionable who had the
lasagna, rolls, nachos and cheese, soda, ice
most fun however: the kids or the adults?
cream bars - and Jell-O. (This may be the
Those not spending the night at the
first time in h history that there was not
resort started on their way home as it started
always room for Jell-O.) With a spread such
getting late. Most of the students were riding
as that, it was a wonder how students, teachwith someone; and this author did not notice
ers, staff and guests were able to enjoy dancany of the students drinking alcohol during the
ing to the music (provided by a DJ) throughevening’s festivities.
out the evening.
Unfortunately, not all students are
Chairman Billy Cypress was on hand
to share in the fun with the young students and able to enjoy their proms without the use of
staff – who were all dressed elegantly in either drugs or alcohol. As a result, each year many
students – or innocent bystanders - are killed
traditional designs or formal wear. The Tribal
by a drunk driver – or someone who is under
photographer was at the disposal of the young
the influence of some mind-altering substance.
people who were encouraged to pose with
(See I’m only Seventeen on page 3.)
their date or friends under the flowered arch.
Some obliged and some did not. Although the
younger generation has recently been exposed
The month of June will take you back to
BRIGHTON SEMINOLE BINGO
the days of Elvis, Rock ‘n’ Roll, drive-ins, and
AND GAMING — Highway 721, Brighton
poodle skirts as the casino celebrates the
Indian Reservation, Route 6, Box 611,
Fabulous 50’s. An authentic 50’s style jukebox
Okeechobee, FL. 34974. (800) 360-9875. Closed
stocked with plenty of Oldies will be given
Mondays and when the last player leaves nightly.
away to one lucky Bingo player on June 30.
Player’s Club members can still enjoy
Players have all month to collect drawing tickets
special 50 percent off savings until the end of
but must be present to win.
May when they play bingo on Fridays. Payouts
Starting at 11 a.m. on the 30th
will still be $150 and $250 per game
Oldies 95 radio will broadcast live from
(depending on pack purchased).
the casino while guests stroll around the
COCONUT CREEK CASINO
parking lot, which will be filled with
— 5550 N.W. 40th St., Coconut Creek,
beautifully maintained classic cars.
FL. 33073. (954) 977-6700. Open seven
Inside from 3 – 5 p.m. and again from 8
days a week, 24 hours a day.
– 11 p.m., $1,000 drawings will take
June 17 the casino will honor all
place every half-hour. At midnight a 1957
fathers on their special day. Three lucky winners
Chevy will go home with one lucky winner.
will win Budweiser golf bags, balls, and more.
Casino and poker players have all month long
“The Fabulons” will be performing top 40 hits
to collect drawing tickets for this fabulous clasand Oldies from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. for this special
sic car.
event-filled day.
JPC members bring your card on Sunday
On June 24, the casino will swing to the
June 10 and with bingo admission receipt and
Latin sound of “Chachet” as they perform salsa,
June’s gamepiece from the newsletter you will
meringue and samba plus some top 40 hits. The
receive your own pair of Seminole Indian
group will appear from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. and will
Casino logo bobby sox. Some sox have hidden
include a special performance by Shelina. A grand
stickers worth up to $500 in matinee bingo and
prize given will take place on the 24th – a chauf$1,000 in evening. Sox o’ Cash is for JPC memfeur driven limousine ride to Meson Madrid in
bers only. If you’re not a member, you may sign
Boca Raton and dinner for two.
up for free anytime prior to the sessions.
SEMINOLE INDIAN CASINO OF
June 17, all gentlemen in attendance will
HOLLYWOOD — 4150 N. SR 7,
receive a complimentary gift in the matinee
Hollywood, FL. 33021. (954) 961-3220 or
or evening session in honor of Father’s Day.
(800) 323-5452. Open seven days a week, 24
Immokalee Casino will host three country
hours a day.
concerts this summer. Things start off on
IMMOKALEE SEMINOLE INDIJune 9 with The Kinleys and Buckwild. July
AN CASINO — 506 S. First St., Immokalee,
7 Andy Griggs with Jake Murphy will
FL. 34142. (941) 658-1313 or (800) 218-0007.
appear followed on August 11 when Seminole songstress
Open seven days a week, 24 hours a day.
Paula Bowers will join Mindy McCready for a special conOne lucky bingo player will be off on a seven day
cert. For information contact Dawn Geis at (800) 218-0007,
Caribbean cruise for two plus over $60,000 in cash and
prizes will be awarded during a special drawing on May 26. ext. 299.
Elaine Tomasic was the winner of the Ford
Win any bingo game and receive a drawing ticket to be eliMustang in the Spring Fling drawing on April 28.
gible.
Congratulations Ms. Tomasic.
Special bingo on the 26th starts at 5 p.m. with four
Remember the casino
sets of party games with dishas started new summer shutcount prices for packs and 2tle hours for pick-up and
for-1 extras (except
departure in the Fort Myers
D.I.Y.’s). Later at the 7 p.m.
and Naples areas. Pick up a
session, packs include twencopy of the new schedule at
ty regular games paying
the casino or call the Groups
$1,199 each. Bonanza and
and Marketing Department to
Super Jackpot will be a
have one sent to you.
Must Go $5,000 each and
SEMINOLE INDIthe Bonanza will come off
AN CASINO TAMPA – 5223
the board.
North Orient Road, Tampa, FL
Also on May 26,
33610. (813) 621-1302. Open
the casino is giving away
seven days a week, 24 hours a
cash. Starting at 3 p.m.
day.
seven $1,000 drawings will
Congratulations from
lead up to a $10,000 drawthe casino to Mary Leschorn
ing at midnight. Casino and
who won $112,000 on the Dopoker players have had all
It-Yourself bingo game May 4.
month to collect their tickets
— Compiled by Libby Blake
to be eligible for the drawMary Leschorn shows off $112,000 check.
ings.
Dr. Siudmak
OBSTETRICS GYNECOLOGY INFERTILITY
• Family Planning
• Laser & Microsurgery
• Nurse Midwifery
• Gynecological Surgery
Services
• High Risk Pregnancy
• Ultrasounds In
• Infertility Counseling
Office
& Treatment
Robert C. Siudmak M.D.
Maria Claudia Zedan C.N.M
961-8303
3801 Hollywood Blvd.
Suite 250, Hollywood
On Hollywood Blvd.&
Presidential Circle
431-7000
1701 NW 123rd Ave
Pembroke Pines
On Taft St.1Blk E. of
Flamingo Rd.
Serving Your Medical Needs Since 1967
E v e n i ng Hou r Available M os t I ns ur a nc e Ac c e p t e d
The Seminole Tribune
6
March 25, 2001
Tommy Benn
Health Corner
Big Cypress Gets Smaller
Team Seminole - March of Dimes
Seminoles On The Warpath Againt Birth Defects
By Tommy Benn
BRIGHTON — Team Seminole, 93 members
strong, marched to the beat of their Seminole Drums to
raise over $7,000 in the fight to save the babies.
Annually more than 450,000 babies are born
prematurely or with low birth weight. For the past 62
years the March of Dimes has saved millions of these
babies from certain death.
When you join WalkAmerica you become a
hero because your efforts will reach programs designed
to help these infants who need your help the most.
Molly Jolly was the high dollar earner raising
$500 in her efforts to support this years March of
Dimes drive. Employed by the Seminole Tribe at
Seminole Aviation on the Big Cypress Reservation,
Spencer Mims finished second overall for Team
Seminole.
A “Platinum Sponsor,” the Seminole Tribe of
Florida also won plaques in three categories for their
efforts: Chairman’s Club Award for raising over
$1,000, Team with the most walkers at 93, and Top
Fund Raising Team, contributing over $7,000 to
WalkAmerica.
Seminole Team Co-Captains Wendy Johns,
Michelle Thomas and Rita Gopher wish to give a special thanks to Chairman James E. Billie for sponsoring
the walker’s luncheon and to Jack Smith Jr. for his
sponsorship of the Seminole Team’s “T” Shirts.
The Seminole Tribe of Florida is proud to be
a March of Dimes WalkAmerica sponsor.
Weigh To Go! Immokalee Loses It!
tion in their attempts at achieving their personal weight
loss goals. Many have also selected a diet program to
fit their individual programs, and it is reported that
they are taking this year’s contest seriously. An aerobics program will be forthcoming for those who wish
to take on a more rigorous exercise program.
The contest, sponsored by the Health
Department, is a yearly event, and many residents look
forward to the yearly challenge. Participants stated it is
always easier to loose
weight if you don’t
have to do it alone.
When there is some
competition, you
seem to strive to work
harder. Participants
also say that they try
to encourage each
other when they see
someone starting to
lose interest or having
a hard time getting
started.
For the
record, most of those
dieters who attended a
recent campaign dinner in Immokalee did
very well. However,
there were a few that
were busted – sneaking back for seconds –
(and we won’t mention any names), but
L-R:Vicky Barrogiannis; Charlie Cypress; Wendy Cypress; Tracy Summeralls;
the majority hung
Cecelia Salano; Wilma Brown; Ken Dunn; Harley Roberts
tough and stayed true
to their commitment
to themselves to peel off those unwanted pounds.
for the 12 weeks following, contestants will try their
Although the twelve weeks may seem to drag
best to win the contest. This year’s prize for the
by, participants are commended for their efforts and
biggest “looser” is some great exercise equipment.
have been encouraged to stick it out – and do this thing
The participants have been seen pedaling,
for themselves – and no one else. Good luck to all!
walking and running around the Immokalee reservaBarbara Secody
By B. Secody
IMMOKALEE, FL — The folks in
Immokalee are losing it again. With summer just
around the corner, many of the Immokalee community
are again preparing to greet the season with a slimmer
version of themselves by starting up a new diet contest. They will be dusting off the old bikinis and heading for the beaches - just in time to beat the heat.
The initial “weigh in” date was April 17, and
Hope Is On The Horizon For
‘Dual Diagnosed’ Patients
By Benny Secody, CAAP II
Long before society had ever heard of dual
diagnosis in reference to mental disorders, it was
affecting a large percentage of mental health patients.
Professionals are still learning to distinguish the additional disorders from familiar addictions such as alcohol and drug abuse. Often, the symptoms overlap;
making it hard to distinguish where one stops and the
other begins.
An individual may be referred to a substance
abuse facility without being properly assessed for additional mental problems. It is usually not until the individual is well into recovery that the second mental
health problem surfaces. The patient could be doing
well with abstinence from his addiction, but shows
signs of paranoia or aggression. While the patient was
a full-blown drug addict, the behavior was blamed on
that particular addiction. Health care professionals
were unable to distinguish between the patients’ behavior from the addiction -for example- alcohol dependence (303.90-DSM-III), cocaine dependence (304.20DSM-III), cannabis dependence (304.30-DSM-III) and
that of schizoaffective disorder (295.70-DSM-III),
major depression (296.3X/recurring-DSM-III), or even
a bipolar disorder (296.5X depressed-DSM-III).
Today, students of psychology and sociology
majors have their work cut out for them with the recent
discovery of the myriad of second or even third disorders plaguing a patient. Extensive study and education
has become necessary for those individuals going into
these fields. A counselor needs to acquire the ability
to detect symptoms of these second or third disorders
during the initial assessment. Specific questions may
be asked to help determine the nature and severity of
the problem. Knowledge of the DSM IV Manual –
with emphasis on the Axis I – Clinical disorders/Other
conditions that may be the focus of clinical attention,
Axis II – Personality Disorders/Mental retardation,
Axis III - General Medical Conditions, Axis IV –
Psychosocial and Environmental Problems and Axis V
– Global assessment of functioning - is necessary at
intake to help assess the possibility of a second or third
disorder prior to creating the initial treatment plan.
Individuals often try to self-medicate themselves, which could be fatal for the patient. Many psychotropic drugs – when interacted with the actual
addiction, i.e. cocaine or heroin, will almost always be
disastrous for that patient. Treatment for the addiction
and the second or third diagnosis should always be a
team effort between the counselor, patient and a
licensed psychiatrist once pharmacology comes into
play so that the patient’s medication will work for him
– not against him.
Many times counselors – during an intake –
will defer the diagnosis on Axis II (799.90) – due to
their lack of credentials to do so. They create their initial treatment plan with other staff and the client, to
include individual counseling, group therapy and activities and education on early recovery. They help the
client to set short term goals for themselves: goals that
are not too overwhelming for someone new into recovery. They will help the client to learn discipline and
abstinence.
Although society has come a long way in the
treatment of mental health illness and addictions (dual
diagnosis), amazing treatments are on the horizon –
soon to be approved - which will revolutionize mental
health treatment and recovery from addiction. In a
recent article in the News Press, the Associated Press
shared an article regarding the mapping of the human
genome, which may include new cures for drug addictions and restoration of mental health. It shows promise to someday replace prisons with pills. Dr. Peter
McGuffin of the Institute of Psychology, Kings
College in London, England – and other experts are
touting that finding genes that influence human behavior may lead to the discovery of drugs that treat or prevent some of the major problems that confront society.
“The sequencing of the genome will
improve our ability to identify the genetic risk factor
genes for a whole variety of conditions, from addiction
to criminality to anti-social personality,” said Dr. Eric
Nestler of the University of Texas, Southwest Medical
Center in Dallas. “This is going to be an enormous
advance for this field.” They report that the many
forms of mental illness are poorly controlled with the
current medications - many of which have side effects
that limit their usefulness. The different reactions to
the drugs could be caused by the differences in genes.
With all of the exciting new concepts and
treatments in the works - hope is finally here for all of
these people who previously did not dare to hope, for
fear of failure. Possibly today’s young people will see
the day come when mental health is a thing of the past,
offering a promising future for everyone.
Submitted By Health
Education Program
A congratulatory luncheon was held on April 25 to
acknowledge all who participated
in the Big Cypress Weight Loss
contest. The contest was sponsored by Big Cypress Council
Representative David Cypress,
the Presidential Fitness Program
and the Big Cypress Recreation
and Health Departments.
This contest, the most
recent in a series of Weight Loss
contests, had two categories –
one for Tribal and community
members and another for
employees from the various
departments on the Big Cypress
Reservation. Both categories had
separate subdivisions for men
and women. The contest included
56 Tribal/Community Members
and 37 Tribal Employees.
The Tribal/Community
Winner’s Circle included: Men 1st Place – Les Gopher, 2nd
Place – Joe Grasshopper, 3rd
Place – Charlie Cypress. Women
– 1st Place – Wendy Cypress,
2nd Place – Candy Cypress, 3rd
Place – Tara Robbins.
The Employee Winner’s
Circle included: Men - 1ST Place
– Harley Roberts, 2nd Place –
Ken Dunn, 3rd Place – Gregory
Carter. Women – 1st Place –
Tracy Summeralls, 2nd Place –
Cecelia Salono, 3rd Place –
Wilma Brown.
Personal Trainer Vicky
Barrogiannis presented the cash
prizes to all winners with hearty
congratulations. A healthful
lunch featuring slimming colorful
salads with grilled chicken, fresh
vegetables and fruit was served
to all who attended the luncheon.
The meal was concluded with
delicious fat-free/sugar-free cake
prepared by Tracy Summeralls.
Big Cypress Health Educator,
Debbie Hamilton, who has lost
72 pounds since the birth of her
children in 1990, presented
health conscious tips designed to
encourage weight loss or weight
maintenance to the audience.
The total weight loss, for this
contest, amounted to 219 pounds.
A new contest is underway with the Weigh-Ins held on
April 30 and May 2 and the final
Weigh-Out to be on August 1.
Congratulations to all of
the participants of the Big
Cypress weight loss contest and
good luck to those in the current
contest.
Warning To All Addicts
By Barbara Secody
In May of 1999, after moving from
Arizona back to the State of Florida, I was diagnosed with Hepatitis C. For those who do not know
about this disease, it is probably the newest and
most deadly epidemic to affect this country in the
last 20 years. It is fatal, and as of yet – there is no
cure. It has infected more than four times as many
Americans as HIV, and something as simple as
sharing a toothbrush could put you at risk. Four
million Americans are thought to be infected with
Hepatitis C – but most of them don’t even know it
yet. I would not have known – had I not tried to
donate blood.
None of us know when our time to die will
come, but knowing we are living on borrowed time,
has a tendency to make us take inventory of our
lives: our failures and our successes. For me, I am
able to claim much success –to which I give all
honor and glory to God. As for the failures, once
they have been turned over to the Lord, they can
then be forgotten.
Since my return to Southwest Florida three
years ago, I have maintained a “coast-to-coast”
relationship with many old friends (who stood by
my through the years I was gone). When I asked
them about certain people I once knew, I can’t
believe that the very people who were and are
aware of what happened to me – the people I used
to drink and drug with – have so quickly forgotten
what that stuff can do.
I have read the Seminole Tribune and there
have been many stories, which have lamented the
passing of some young person, either killed in a car
accident, shot, stabbed or overdosed.
I wish all the young people – correction –
all those people who are hopelessly lost in their
addiction - could somehow realize just how dangerous what they are doing is. This drug is an equal
opportunity destroyer. You will lose the ability to
remember that you want to live – and you will no
longer be able to differentiate between what is and
is not real. If anyone can honestly say they know
what they are talking about – first hand – it is I.
How ironic – that even though I was given an
extension to my own life, and thought for all the
past 12 years of sobriety that I had “lucked out” –
and had been given a second chance – the reality of
that old cliché comes into play: “Your past always
comes back to haunt you.”
You all can never know how hard it has
been for me to write this: but it will be more than
worth it if even one person will remember and use
what happened to me to save yourselves or someone you love.
The Seminole Tribe will always be in my
prayers, and I wish good health and continued prosperity to all of you. May God bless you.
Respectfully,
Barbara (Doctor/Billie) Secody
Lecture Open and Free
Health lecture by ophthalmologist Carla
Paris Teich, O.D. a geriatric specialist and
macular degeneration expert. A common eye
disease affecting older adults.
To be held on Wednesday, June 27,
2001, at 2:30 p.m. Call 954-963-0200 to register. At NorthPark, A Classic Residence by
Hyatt, 24800 North Park Road, Hollywood,
FL 33021
The Seminole Tribune
7
May 25, 2001
Corriente cattle liked what they were fed by Lubbock Feeders.
Bellamy And Seminole Team Up
Doug Kaba manager of the Lubbock Feeders
has offered various programs for consideration. Back
grounding cattle on grass, feeding various weight cattle, fitting any specialized needs that may arise.
The fed lot has a capacity to handle 50,000
head of feeder cattle having generally favorable feeding conditions than locations warmer weather and
less snowfall than further North.
The feed lot has a railroad spur capable of
handling 15 railroad cars at a time. Its grain storage
capacity is scheduled for up to 640,000 bushel of
corn, and 6 million pounds of roughage fed.
Lubbock Feeder’s favorable weather, railroad access and foodstuff storage will keep Lubbock
Feeders competitive with other area feeders vying for
a higher profit.
“We got our feet wet, the return was fair, not
great but fair and with the Bellamy’s as partners
they’ll be watching closely too. If you have something to lose you tend to watch things more attentively.” Alex Johns.
By Tommy Benn
LUBBOCK, TEXAS — The Seminole
Tribe of Florida and The Bellamy Brothers, Howard
and David finished their small joint venture with a
profit coming back to the Tribe. The Bellamy’s has
purchased a fed lot in the northwestern town of
Lubbock. And always looking for an investment
opportunity the Board purchased a small herd of
Mexican Coriente steers to feed out.
The 206 Steers were fed 212 days longer
than we had anticipated but necessary due to the
uncommonly cold and snowy weather in Texas. We
didn’t reach our dollar objective but were happy with
the results and we made money. We got our feet wet
and understand the operations more now and plan to
invest with the Bellamy’s again in the near future.
The Bellamy’s Lubbock Feeders has offered
to partner with us the Seminole Tribe of Florida on a
50/50 basis. Matching the Tribes’ dollar for dollar,
that’s what they’re bringing to the table as an equal
partner.
4-H Appreciation Luncheon
Janice Billie
By Janice Billie
With a figure of a prize winning hog depicted on it
Big Cypress ⎯ Residents of the Big
the plaque is to remind them that their hard work is
Cypress community and parents of the 4-H Swine
appreciated.
Club members took the time to recognize Benny and Robyn Hernandez for
all their hard work, time and effort in
keeping the program running smoothly.
It was planned as a surprise and indeed
turned out to be a surprise for the honorees. They gathered at the Morgan
Smith Cattle and Range Building to
enjoy ribs, steaks and side dishes provided by the families of the club members.
Benny Hernandez is a long
time tribal employee working in different areas but mostly as caretaker of the
Junior Cypress Rodeo Arena grounds
and livestock. He and his wife Robyn,
an employee at the Ah-tah-thi-ki
Museum have managed and coordinated the 4-H Swine Club for the past two
years.
Paul Buster was on hand to
provide some mood music and to presBenny and Robyn Hernandez proudly display plaques.
ent Benny and Robyn with a plaque.
SCOTT H. CUPP
SCOTT H. CUPP, P.A.
663 WEST COWBOY WAY
P.O. DRAWER 2250
LABELLE, FL 33975-2250
Robertson Sells 2001 Calf Crop
commodity grain feeders feeding out record 650,000
to 700,000 cattle annually.
The calves sold as usual by weight, frame
and sex (heifers and steers). Light 400 pounds medium 500 pounds and heavy 585 pounds with a 10-cent
slide and a 2% shrink at shipping. The calves are to
be ready for delivery and shipment the end of July.
Sparks has purchased cattle from the
Seminole Tribe of Florida from the Superior
Video in years past and has seen a steady
increase in the production and quality of the
South Florida cattle. Last year, ‘2000, Cold
Water Cattle negotiated with Don Robertson and
Brighton Board Rep. Alex Johns to purchase all
the calves from the Parker Island Land Lease.
Pleased with the production ratio and the carcass
yield he offered to buy the Seminole Tribe of
Florida saleable calves off both Seminole
Reservations and the Seminole Board’s two cattle
operations for the 2001calf crop.
Johns invited Sparks to come to Florida to
survey and cruise the cattle before he purchased
the cattle. Sparks excepted the offer and made his
way South to inspect the the cow calf herd operations.
“Don and I had made plans to spend a day
or two with Mr. Sparks, but
when we met he had only one question” stated
Alex Johns. “Where do you get your breeding
bulls?” Johns replied, “from East Texas, Black
Brangus Bulls from Steiner’s “XS”, Blazack’s
Mound Creek, Donnie Robertson’s Flying “B”
and from your own Cold Water operations.”
All four breeding operations use basically
the same gene pool. “It’s in the Genes.” The
proof is in the pudding and the pudding is called
money. With that Sparks concluded that he’d
seen what he came to see. He wanted to purchase
the entire 2001 Seminole calf crop and again
offered to purchase. Robertson and Johns sharpened their pencils and began to put the numbers
together, reaching an agreement equitable to both
Celeste Billie records information at processing plant.
sides
A $30.00 per head front money was agreed
to, payable when the contracts were sign sealed
Willard Sparks’ Cold Water Cattle Company and delivered. The sale will also be free of any video
of Germantown, Tennessee
sales commissions which is estimated about $8.00
purchased the entire 2001 calf crop. Sparks and Cold per head.
Water Cattle Company is one of thenations largest
By Tommy Benn
BRIGHTON RESERVATION — Natural
Resource Director of the Seminole Tribe of Florida,
Don Robertsonsold the entire 2001 calf crop from
both Big Cypress and Brighton Reservation. As well
as allthe board cattle projects; Board Cattle #1, the
Miccosukee Land Lease and Board Cattle #2,the
Parker Island herds.
Tommy Benn
ATTORNEY AND COUNSELOR AT LAW
CRIMINAL LAW
Cayman Islanders fed and export staggering number
By Tommy Benn
of turtles annually from its homeports, as does the
OCALA — The 31st Florida International
Seminole Tribe.
Agriculture Business Trade Show and International
Leroy Baldwin President of the exhibit this
Livestock Conference was held at the SouthEastern
year was pleased with the turnout, although the numLivestock Pavilion in Ocala, Marion County Florida
bers of visitor were down from past years. “I believe
May 6th through May 10th 2001.
its due to the Hoof and Mouth Disease outbreaks
This years topic is Livestock in the Tropics,
many people not wanting to travel”. replied Baldwin.
right up the ally for the newly acquired Seminole
Tribe of Florida / H K Cattle operations coming soon “We here in Florida have been taking every precaution to ensure that an outbreak doesn’t come to
to Big Cypress Reservation.
Florida at the host Hotel and every entrance to any
The Seminole Tribe of Florida took this opportunity
building we have placed sterilized foot mats and
to showcase its HK Cattle (Red Brahman Herd) purchased from Texas. These cattle have been purchased have insisted that they be used. On every ranch and
farm visited on the tour the participants were as to
to hit the International market who tend to prefer the
wear rubber booties for safety and their shoe saniRed Brahman cattle in their breeding programs.
tized” Baldwin explained.
Favored by many South and Central American
From farm implements to tractors various
Countries to up grade their base cow genetics for
animal breeds both horses and cattle. Truck livestock
higher quality off springs. Targeting both breeding
stock and marketable beef.
Dinah Weil marketing specialist for
the tribe with the H K program greeted many
of her old friends from the 16 counties represented at the annual convention and trade show.
Ms. Weil is the past secretary for the
American Brahman Breeders Association, serving in this position for over 10 years. Her contracts with overseas buyers, and knowledge of
US Custom rules and regulations ins and outs
are unmeasurable. These factors will and her
working ability of the cattle industry is a great
asset to the tribe. As the tribe set forth in this
venture of marketing H K seed stock animals,
semen and frozen embryos to foregone trade.H
K Red Brahman cattle are recognized world
wide as the leader in the Red Brahman industry.
Ms. Weil, along with CO-owner and
partner with the Seminole Tribe of Florida
Dinah Weil Sen / H-K Cattle with Equadorian Group.
Larry Jannsen have sold and shipped H K Red
Brahman semen, embryos and seed stock to
trailers veterinary supplies insect and pesticides
over 40 countries in past years and plan to have an
spraying machine and foggers if it build or manufacaggressive campaign to expand the H K customer
tured for a working ranch it was at Ocala for the
market base Nationally and Internationally.
viewing.
Calixto Garcia-Velez tribal advisor to for“The week long meeting and tradeshow
eign affairs greeted and helped aquatint the markethave had mixed results” explained
ing of the H K Cattle to many of his old friends and
acquaintances from the Caribbean, South and Central Larry Barthle of Barthle Brothers Ranch, located in
San Antonio Florida. The
American cattle breeding countries.
Barthle Family specializes in Brahman
Sem Pro Feed another Seminole Tribe of
Cattle and American Quarter Horses. We tend not to
Florida iniquity’s booth was manned by Jimmy Mac
have immediate sales from the tradeshow. Our results
Daniels. Mac Daniels was making contacts with sevcome by referrals than direct sales, but the annual
eral Island Nations who must import all their feed
event has been profitable for us and has opened new
grains needed for their various livestock ventures.
area for sale of our cattle and horses.
The Cayman Island group was also interested in the
turtle food manufactured by Sem Pro Feeds. The
Tommy Benn
Tommy Benn
Livestock Trade Show And Conference
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FAX (863) 675-3044
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The Seminole Tribune
8
May 25, 2001
The Seminole Tribune
9
May 25, 2001
SPORTS
Jay Hoffman, Okeechobee charter holder and certified referee, explains VNEA rules to Nicole (back to
camera), Russell and Juanita Osceola, and Virginia Billie.
Warm-Up For State Pool
Tournament Held In Immokalee
By Libby Blake
IMMOKALEE — Immokalee hosted its
annual pre-state Valley National Eight Ball
Association (VNEA) tournament on Saturday May 5
at the Pool Barn. The event was open to all pool players but played under VNEA rules. This was the second year for the tournament, which helps league players get ready for the Florida state event held this year
in Tampa May 10 – 13. (See Nunez Brothers Place
Seventh In VNEA in this issue.)
This year saw nearly double the players compete in team, scotch doubles, and men’s and women’s
nine-ball events. Also this year, players had to pay to
compete. Team entry was $100 with all other events
$20 each. All entry money went into the prize fund
with some additional monies added by Big Cypress
and Immokalee Recreation and Councilman David
Cypress.
Play started at noon with the team event and
continued until 4:30 a.m. Cinco de Mayo celebrations
at the neighboring ballpark provided players with
other entertainment as they waited their turn to shoot.
Also, the Eastern Indian Rodeo Association was in
town with a full program starting at 5 p.m. next door
at the Youth Rodeo Arena.
Immokalee pre-school PAC and 4-H sold
food at the concession stand until the wee hours raising money for their programs and keeping the shooters well nourished.
“Seminoles” and “Boogie Men” were the
highest placing teams with Tribal citizen players.
“Seminoles” team consists of Councilman David
Cypress, Tony Billie, Randy Clay, George
Grasshopper, Anthony Falcigno, and Andy Tennant.
“Boogie Men” includes brothers David, Danny
“Boogie,” and Dallas “Dusty” Nunez along with
teammates Chris Close and Danny Meara.
Tribal citizens Virginia Billie and Carlene
Osceola finished third and fifth, respectively, in the
women’s nine-ball.
For The Record: Team: 1st place – Classics,
2nd place – Dale Breland’s, 3rd place – Outsiders, 4th
place – Wise Guys, 5th place – Patch Grabbers, 6th
place – Sharp Shooters, and 7th place (tie) –
Seminoles and Boogie Men.
Scotch Doubles: 1st place – Javier and Beth,
2nd place – Debbie Alfrey and Al Koklys, 3rd place –
John Pent and Elisha Huson, 4th place – Kathy
Phillips and Rich Shaw, and 5th place – Danny Meara
and Peggy Nunez (wife of Boogie Nunez).
Women’s 9-Ball: 1st place – Debbie Alfrey,
2nd place – Elisha Huson, 3rd place – Virginia Billie,
4th place – Tara Spiney, and 5th place – Carlene
Osceola.
Men’s 9-Ball: 1st place – Rich Shaw, 2nd
place – Jim Rose, 3rd place – John Pent, 4th place –
Javier, and 5th place – Al Koklys.
Brighton Archery Shoot
By Janice Billie
Brighton — In the second round of qualifying shoots for the Native American Indigenous Games
2002, Tribal citizens arrived at the Brighton Archery
Range on the morning of April 28 to take aim at racking up points for a spot on Team Florida.
It was a picture perfect day weatherwise,
although some might argue that it was a little too
warm. The Brighton range is quite extensive with
some twenty targets set in an area covering a large
part of the hammock located behind the Fred Smith
Rodeo Arena.
The competition started at the scheduled time
of 10 a.m. and finished around 2 p.m. including a
break for lunch. A tough course of twenty targets for
two rounds totaling 40 shots was completed by most
of the entrants.
Chris Osceola from Hollywood led the pack
in scoring for this round with 206 points. Coming in a
close second was Parker Jones with a score 191.
Sonny Frank of Hollywood who took first place in
scores at the first round in Big Cypress came in third
with 183 points. The next two shot only one round
and placed as follows: Marvin Bowers – 88 points,
Clinton Holt – 61 points. In the women’s division
Rose Jones of Brighton scored 153 points. In the
youth division, Clinton Bowers also of Brighton
scored 59 points.
The next scheduled round is to be held at the
Big Cypress Archery Range on Sat., June 2. This will
be the third of ten qualifying rounds. Entrants in each
division must shoot a minimum of eight qualifying
rounds for your scores to count towards a spot on
Team Florida. The average score from the best eight
rounds will be used and the highest average in each
category will represent Team Florida. So if you’ve
missed any shoots so far this will be your last chance
to start for qualification. Hope to see you there. If you
need any more information please contact Steve
Young at Hollywood Recreation at (954) 989-9457.
Nunez Brothers Place Seventh
At State VNEA Tournament
Libby Blake
Libby Blake
By Libby Blake
TAMPA – The Nunez brothers,
“Boogie,” “Dusty,” and David, along with
teammates Chris Close and Danny Meara
placed seventh in the top division of the
Florida State Valley National Eight-Ball
Association (VNEA) tournament held at the
Doubletree Hotel in Tampa May 10 – 13. The
team, appropriately named the “Boogie Men,”
advanced undefeated to the “Golden Eight” in
the State division where the top teams compete
head-to-head for the coveted first place position.
David Nunez also placed thirteenth,
out of 364 entries, in the singles competition.
All men, or women, compete equally regardless of skill level in singles play. Teams are
ranked by where they finished in their individual leagues with the top third placed in the
Motown BoyzRoy Garza, Isaac Rodriguez, Mario Posada,
“State” division, the middle third in the
Ralph Sanchez and Rene Barba (kneeling).
“Expert” division, and the bottom third in
“Sportsmen.”
“Seminoles,” captained by Tony Billie
and Andy Tennant, failed to place in the State division
with Councilman David Cypress, O.B. Osceola,
but put on a fine display of pool skill throughout the
George Grasshopper, Randy Clay, Anthony Falcigno,
competition.
In the Expert division “Motown Boyz” also
finished in the seventh position. The team is
captained by Ralph Sanchez with players Roy
Garza, Mario Posada, Isaac Rodriguez, and
Rene Barba. Motown Boyz was required to
move up to Expert after capturing first place in
last year’s Sportsmen event at the state tournament.
Highest place finishers, of Tribal sponsored
teams, in Sportsmen division were “Fox and
Houndz.” This team was captained by David’s
wife, Anita Nunez with fellow players Tony
Carter, Sean Tucker, J.W. Davenport, and Dean
Autrey. Finishing sixteenth were the “Play’AZ”
team from Immokalee. Maria Billie, wife of
Assistant Recreation Director David Billie, captained the team that included Roy Cantu, Juan
Salinas, Marciano Calderon, Mike Alvarado Jr.,
and Libby Blake.
Congratulations to all players and teams who
represented the Seminole Tribe at this year’s
Boogie Men advance to the “Golden Eight.”
VNEA tournament.
E. Tiger
By Ernie Tiger
BIG CYPRESS — March
2,2001 Hunting out on the 70,000 acre
Big Cypress Reservation, has it many
advantages. Compared to hunting in
other areas in the state of Florida.
Were the lands are pressured by
hunters and campers year round
tromping through it’s forest. Keeping
the wild game in the area tuned into
the sights and sounds of humans. The
Big Cypress Reservation, which is
only accessible by Seminole Tribal
Citizens only, is one of the still
unspoiled areas in Florida were wild
animals can still be viewed or hunted
without the interruptions, you would
find at other hunting destinations in
the state of Florida. The two types of
Naha Jumper and Happy Jumper pull the hog to shore.
species of wild pig found out on the
Big Cypress Reservation. The Piney
wood Rooters and RazorBacks pigs,
day out with tribal citizens Naha Jumper and Happy
which were both, domesticated. Are hunted on this
Moses Jumper Third. We caught and released two
abundant hunting game area for its meat and money
Wild Boars and one Sow. With guide Happy Jumper
value. Were tribal citizens on the Reservation sell the saying “That it wasn’t unusual two capture a three
pigs. To a nearby hunting preserve called Safari were hundred pound pig like the boar caught that day.”
the members collect cash for different sized pigs.
Being my second time out on what I will call an
The hunting found on the Big Cypress
extreme hunt. I was a little more willing to jump of
Reservation is an experience in a class of all it’s own. the customized swamp buggy into the hammock. To
The Black Boar, which is probably the most notorihelp wrestle a two hundred-pound plus pig with the
ous animals, found in this area. Have been tromping
assistance of guide Naha Jumper. And two dogs to
through these lands since the early days of 1500’s.
the ground to be tied, weighed, and photographed
When Spanish explores brought over the pig over for before being released.
food on their journey to the new unexplored territoTribal Citizen Naha Jumper who has capries. When released in this fertile land, were lush
tured and released more than 350 pigs on the reservavegetation blankets most of
tion says “The he doesn’t believe in
the territory. The domestishooting the pigs, its to easy. If
cated pig flourished in its
you’re a real hunter and you’re looknew habitat. Feeding on the
ing for that intense feeling of hunting
abundant indigenous fruits
something. The feeling you’ll get by
and roots. Which the native
actually capturing a wild boar on
animals found in these
foot is far surpior to any pig you’ll
areas have never fed on.
ever shoot.” Although the guides say
Giving them an unlimited
they he has killed some of the pigs
supply of food on which to
captured. “It was only because the
feed on. And destroying
size of cutters that were on the boar.”
many potential farming
Which are the elongated teeth, which
lands for farmers.
extend from the lower jaw, are measSince the early
ured for potential trophy boars.
days of the Indian Removal
Wither the pigs are killed or not the
Act in 1800’s, three hunlarge population of pigs found on the
dred years after the foreign
reservation will not be diminished.
pig was introduced to
But help keep the population to a
Florida. Seminoles were
minium. The pigs, which are foreign
taking full advantage of
to the land, destroy croplands and
this opportunity of food
uproot indigenous roots. To the point
and money, while evading
of killing them without the chance to
the capture of US. Troops.
Naha Jumper caught a 300 pounder. reproduce. Killing the foreign animal
The wild boar, with its vast
or transporting the pig only keeps
populations found in the
the population of this animal to a
everglades. Provided easy food and money for the
minimum. Were if the animal was not hunted, it
Seminoles during these times. The wild boar, which
could possibly over take an area. Were they having
is now usually hunted in the occasional pig hunting
no potential predators, which feed on them. Besides
tournament or for money. Is one of the more exciting the Florida Panther which are found in small populahunts I think anyone can ever experience. The first
tion in this area.
E. Tiger
Libby Blake
Big Cypress’s Extreme Boar Hunting
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The Seminole Tribune
10
May 25, 2001
Gathering Of Nations
For The Record:
DANCE COMPETITION:
Women’s Fancy: 1st
place – Bonnie Tomahsah
(Comanche) Apache, OK; 2nd
place – Shelly Bointy
(Dakota/Ottawa) Lawrence, KS;
3rd place – Crystal Cleveland
(Ho-Chunk) St. Paul, MN; 4th
place – Tanksi Clairmont
(Rosebud Sioux) Denver, CO, 5th
place – Laverne Scabbyrobe
(Navajo) Yakima, WA.
Women’s Jingle: 1st
place – B.J. Komancheet
(Seminole) Indianhoma, OK; 2nd
place – Jennifer Hamilton
(Arikara-Hidatsa) Tonkawa, OK;
3rd place – Gladys Two Eagle
(Rosebud Lakota) Wisconsin
Dells, WI; 4th place – Yvette
Ewalk (Nakota) Anadarko, OK;
5th place – Reva Hayes (Standing
Rock Hunkpapa) Rapid City, SD.
Women’s Northern
Buckskin: 1st place – Jodi
Gillette (Lakota) Bismark, ND;
2nd place – Rose Ann Abrahmson
(Lehmi Shoshone) Ft. Hall, ID;
3rd place – Dustina Abrahmson
(Shoshone Bannock) Ft. Hall, ID;
4th place – Linda Standing
(Dakota) Saskatoon, Sask., CAN;
5th place – Joyce Hayes (ShoBan) Ft. Hall, ID.
Women’s Southern
Buckskin: 1st place – Rebecca
Hamilton (Sac-n-Fox) Pawnee,
OK; 2nd place – Dannielle
Primeaux (Otoe) Jones, OK; 3rd
place – Jacqueline Tsonetokoy
(Kiowa) Carnegie, OK; 4th place
– Shayne Hughes (Otoe) Jones,
OK; 5th place – Delaine
Snowball (Shawnee) St. Louis,
MO.
Women’s Cloth: 1st
place – Ponka-We Victors
(Ponca) Wichita, KS; 2nd place –
Emerald Keen (Omaha) Omaha,
NE; 3rd place – Yvonne Sadongei
(Kiowa/Comanche) Shawnee,
OK; 4th place – Janet Saupitty
(Comanche) Lawton, OK; 5th
place – Sandy Tate-Nevaguaya
(Ponca/Sac-n-Fox) Apache, OK.
Men’s Southern Fancy:
1st place – Dwight White Buffalo
(So. Cheyenne) Sisseton, SD; 2nd
place – Michael Roberts
(Choctaw/Chickasaw) Ada, OK;
3rd place Joe Bointy
(Kiowa/Comanche/Arapaho)
Lawrence, KS; 4th place – Jeffery
McClellan (Sac-n-Fox) Perkins,
OK; 5th place – Randy Moore
(Otoe-Pawnee) Geronimo, OK.
Men’s Northern Fancy:
1st place – Poncho Brady
(Hidatsa/Arikara) Newtown, ND;
2nd place – Wayne Silas (Oneida)
Lawrence, KS; 3rd place – Jerry
Cleveland (Ho-Chunk) Widells,
WI; 4th place – Larry Yazzie
(Meskowaki/Navajo) Phoenix,
AZ; 5th place – Cortney Yarholar
(Sac-n-Fox/Otoe/Creek) Norman,
OK.
Men’s Grass: 1st place
– Randall Paskemin (Cree)
Gallivan, Sask., CAN; 2nd place
– Wesley Windy Boy
(Assiniboine Cree) Rocky Boy,
MT; 3rd place – Julius Not Afraid
(Crow/Lakota) Allen, SD; 4th
place – Lakota Clairmont
(Rosebud Lakota) Lakewood,
CO; 5th place – Wanbli Charging
Eagle (Lakota Sioux) Eagle
Butte, SD.
Men’s Northern
Traditional: 1st place – Brando
Jack (Dine) White Cone, AZ; 2nd
place – Nathan Largo (Dine)
Brimhal, NM; 3rd place – Charles
Hindsley (Ho-Chunk) Shiprock,
NM; 4th place – Terry Thumb
Fiddler (Lakota) Rapid City, SD;
5th place – Osceola Red Shirt
(Oglala) Greensboro, NC.
Men’s Southern
Straight: 1st place – Shude
Victors (Ponca) Wichita, KS; 2nd
place – Ralph Haymond (Pawnee)
Pawnee, OK; 3rd place – Ronnie
Goodeagle (Sac-n-Fox)
Flandreau, SD; 4th place –
Wahkeen Hamilton (Pawnee)
Tonkawa, OK; 5th place – Terry
Tsotigh (Kiowa) Del City, OK.
Golden Age Women
Northern: 1st place – Pearl
Sammarlye (Colville
Confederated Tribes) Ft. Duches,
UT; 2nd place – Sylvestine
Shields (Pawnee/Otoe) Shawnee,
OK; 3rd place – Edith Yazzie
(Dine) Chinle, AZ; 4th place –
Patricia Logan (Ho-Chunk)
Milwaukee, WI.
Golden Age Women
Southern: 1st place – Linda
Tsonetokoy (Kiowa) Carnegie,
OK; 2nd place – Dolores
Goodeagle (Osage/Sac-n-Fox)
Anadarko, OK; 3rd place –
Charlene Cozad
(Osage/Potowatomi) Hominy,
OK; 4th place – Mabel Cozad
(Kiowa) Anadarko, OK.
Golden Age Men
Northern: 1st place – Herman
Logan (Winnebago) Milwaukee,
WI; 2nd place – Lorren
Sammarypo (Northern Pauite) Ft.
Duches, UT; 3rd place – Norman
Largo (Dine) Brimhall, NM; 4th
place – Wayne Crowfeather
(Hunkpapa Lakota) McLaughlin,
SD.
Golden Age Men
Southern: 1st place – Lewis
Cozad (Kiowa) Anadarko, OK;
2nd place – Darrell Moore
(Pawnee/Otoe) Glenn Heights,
TX; 3rd place – TC
Ahkeasko (Kiowa)
Vander Wagen, NM; 4th place –
George Howell
(Pawnee/Cheyenne) Euless, TX.
Women’s Elders (70 +):
1st place – Dawn Littlesky
(Lakota) Kyle, SD; 2nd place –
Auralia Stacona (Warm Springs)
Warm Springs, OK; 3rd place –
Myra Burgess (Comanche)
Apache, OK; 4th place – Grace
Tsonetokoy (Kiowa) Carnegie,
OK.
Men’s Elders (70 +): 1st
place – Floyd Moses (Pawnee)
Anadarko, OK; 2nd place – John
Whiteshirt (Arapaho) Pawnee,
OK; 3rd place – Henry Tomahsah
(Comanche) Apache, OK; 4th
place – Theodore Evans (Dine)
Chinle, AZ.
Tiny Tots – Girls: 1st
place – Symone Paskemin (Cree)
Gallivan, Sask., CAN; 2nd place
– Jensen Peone
(Spokane/Colville) Ford, WA; 3rd
place – Camille Summer Johnson
(Alabama-Coushatia) Livingston,
TX; 4th place – Ariann Sheka
(Cheyenne) Ft. Defiance, AZ.
Tiny Tots – Boys: 1st
place – Christopher Morphen
(Navajo/Ute) Albuquerque, NM;
2nd place – Hiram Gleason
(Navajo) Newcomb, NM; 3rd
place – Ben Conny Weedy
(Comanche) Norman, OK; 4th
place – Arthur Schrock
(Kiowa/Pueblo) Albuquerque,
NM.
Jr. Girls Fancy: 1st
place – Toni Dee (Dine)
Montezuma Creek, UT; 2nd place
– Desiree Redhouse (Navajo)
Mesa, AZ; 3rd place – Nikollane
Kanuho (Dine) Tuba City, AZ;
4th place – Wynema Redbird
(Navajo) Chinle, AZ; 5th place –
Tessa Sunkey (Dine/Apache) La
Plata, NM.
Jr. Girls Jingle: 1st
place – Shayleen Primeaux
(Dine/Lakota/Sioux) Bloomfield,
NM; 2nd place – Yoklot
Cornelius (Oneida) Oneida, WI;
3rd place – Lovelle Pachoa
(Dine/Apache/Sioux/Pueblo)
Sacramento, CA; 4th place –
Jolynn Thompson (Navajo)
Chinle, AZ; 5th place – Alyssa
Woody (Dine) Bloomfield, NM.
Jr. Girls Traditional:
1st place – Cheyenne Gwin (Sacn-Fox) Pawnee, OK; 2nd place –
Charish Toehay (Kiowa/Osage)
Anadarko, OK; 3rd place –
Raetawa Yazzie (Dine) Flagstaff,
AZ; 4th place – Utania Nelson
(Navajo) Window Rock, AZ; 5th
place – J’shen Tsosie (Dine)
Phoenix, AZ.
Jr. Boys Fancy Grass:
1st place – Rylon Gwin (Sac-nFox) Pawnee, OK; 2nd place –
Jonnie Johnson (Navajo)
Kirtland, NM; 3rd place –
Graham Primeaux (Otoe Ponca)
Shawnee, OK; 4th place – Elden
Owens (Dine) Gallup, NM; 5th
place – Corey Etsitty (Dine)
Phoenix, AZ.
Jr. Boys Traditional: 1st
place – Kiowa Cozad
(Kiowa/Osage) Hominy, OK; 2nd
place – Alister Misha (Dine)
Window Rock, AZ; 3rd place –
Weston Tso (Navajo) Chinle, AZ;
4th place – Ryan Cody Nelson
(Navajo) Window Rock, AZ; 5th
place – Roderick Slim (Dine)
Bluff, UT.
Teen Girl’s Fancy: 1st
place – Shamaray Yazzie (Dine)
Flagstaff, AZ; 2nd place –
Urseloria Kanuho (Dine) Tuba
City, AZ; 3rd place – Jolynn
Begay (Navajo/Hopi) Salt Lake
City, UT; 4th place – Jodi King
(Oneida/Ho-Chunk) Oneida, WI;
5th place – Patricia John (Navajo)
Rock Point, AZ.
Teen Girl’s Jingle: 1st
place – Challis Beetso (Navajo)
Sanders, AZ; 2nd place – Tahnee
Williams (Apache/Navajo)
Tempe, AZ; 3rd place – Kendra
Redhouse (Navajo/Hopi) Mesa,
AZ; 4th place – Shalene Nelson
(Navajo) Window Rock, AZ; 5th
place – Meredith Hedgepeth
(Cherokee) Hollister, NC.
Teen Girl’s Traditional:
1st place – DaLynn Alley
(Otoe/Seminole) St. Louis, MO;
2nd place – Deana Deer
(Kiowa/Ponca) Wichita, KS; 3rd
place – Michelle Flyingman
(Cheyenne/Kiowa) Albuquerque,
NM; 4th place – Celia Redbird
(Cheyenne) Pasedena, CA; 5th
place – Summer Baldwin (Lemhi
Shoshone) Ft. Hall, ID.
Teen Boy’s Fancy: 1st
place – LyDall Yazzie (Dine)
Flagstaff, AZ; 2nd place – Tyson
Draper (Navajo) Kirtland, NM;
3rd place – Danell Hill (Oneida)
Milwaukee, WI; 4th place –
Isaiah Bob (Navajo) Yatahey,
NM; 5th place – Corey Reeder
(Kiowa/Dine) Dulce, NM.
Teen Boy’s Grass: 1st
place – Keeno Gallegos
(Comanche) Denver, CO; 2nd
place – Lee Jack (Dine) Indian
Wells, AZ; 3rd place – Ryan
Standing (Dakota) Edmonton,
CAN; 4th place – Ron Lodgepole
(Cree) Rocky Boy, MT.
Teen Boy’s Northern
Traditional: 1st place – Troy
Becenti (Dine) Farmington, NM;
2nd place – Lyle Nelson (Navajo)
Window Rock, AZ; 3rd place –
Kyle Etsitty (Dine) Phoenix, AZ;
4th place – Wayne Holliday
(Dine) Salt Lake City, UT; 5th
place – Tyvin Hoskie (Navajo)
Window Rock, AZ.
Teen Boy’s Southern
Straight: 1st place – A.J. Leading
Fox (Pawnee/Otoe) Pawnee, OK;
2nd place – Ron Goodeagle
(Osage/Comanche/Sac-n-Fox)
Flandreau, SD; 3rd place –
Nashaba Simmons
(Choctaw/Kickapoo) Little Axe,
OK; 4th place – Hyde Toppah
(Kiowa) Weatherford, OK; 5th
place – Bubba Komahcheex
(Seminole) Indianhoma, OK.
DRUMS:
Northern Drum
Contest: 1st place – Bear Creek:
Lead Singer – Kevin Syrette:
Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, CAN;
2nd place – White Fish Juniors:
Lead Singer – Harvey Dreaver:
Victoria, Sask., CAN; 3rd place –
Meskwaki Nation: Lead Singer –
Lydell Bear: Tama, IA; 4th place
– Walking Buffalo: Lead Singer –
Clayton Kernotch: Debden, Sask.,
CAN; 5th place – Tha Tribe:
Lead Singer – Wayne Silas Jr.:
Lawrence, KS.
Southern Drum
Contest: 1st place – Bad
Medicine: Lead Singer – Joe Fish
Dupoint: Carnegie, OK; 2nd
place – White Tail Singers: Lead
Singer – Tim Grant: Macy, NE;
3rd place – Young Bird: Lead
Singer – Curtis Hamilton:
Pawnee, OK; 4th place – Cozad:
Lead Singer – Larry Cozad:
Hominy, OK; 5th place –
Southern Thunder: Lead Singer –
Kyle Tippas: Stillwater, OK.
Southern Women’s
Back Up Singers: Bad Medicine,
Carnegie, OK.
MISS INDIAN
WORLD CONTEST:
Best Interview: Ke
Aloha Alo (White Mountain
Apache/Hawaiian/Samoan) White
Mountain, AZ and N. Shore of
Hawaii.
Public Speaking: Ke
Aloha Alo.
Best Talent: Raynel
Olney
(Yakima/Shoshone/Bannock)
Yakima, WA.
Dance Contest: Trina
McGahey (Ojibwe/Delaware)
Chippewa of the Thames First
Nation, Ontario, CAN.
Miss Congeniality:
Marion James (Lumbee) North
Carolina.
Second Runner-Up:
Genevieve Markussen
(Yurok/Karuk/Yacqui) Shasta
Lake, CA.
First Runner-Up:
Jessica Black
(Gwich’in/Athabascan)
Fairbanks, AK.
MISS INDIAN
WORLD 2001 – Ke Aloha Alo.
Cinco de Mayo At
Immokalee Rodeo Arena
For The Record
17th Annual Herman Osceola
Basketball Tournament
By Janice Billie
BIG CYPRESS — The
17th Annual Herman Osceola
Basketball Tournament was held
on May 4 and 5. It turned out to
be thirty hours of superb basketball, displaying some of the best
teams and talent in Seminole and
Miccosukee country.
This annual tournament
is dedicated to the memory of
Tribal member and Big Cypress
resident, Herman Osceola, son of
Ruby and the late Roy Nash
Osceola. Herman graduated from
Clewiston High School and went
on to join the United States
Marines in 1980. He was killed in
a helicopter accident in South
Korea in 1984. It was to honor
and remember a young man who
believed in doing the right thing
that this tournament was started
seventeen years ago.
It has become one of the
more popular tournaments of the
Seminole and Miccosukee basketFirst place winning team “Big Cypress Warriors.”
ball tournament circuit. A total of
nineteen teams signed up for this
years competition with four teams
Caryn Billie was named Most Valuable Player.
being turned away due to the time element, making it
The championship game in the men’s divithe largest in this tournament’s history.
sion was battled out by Trail (I) and Big Cypress
Beginning on Friday evening at 6 p.m., the
Warriors. The Warriors came in the finals undefeated
final game ended after 5 a.m. on Sunday. Double
beating this Trail team very early in the tournament
elimination made it possible for any team to get that
and setting up the potential of Trail having to beat the
second chance to vie for the championship and for
Warriors twice if necessary. It did come down to them
any spectator to enjoy what turned out to be not only
playing two for the championship thanks to a lethal
exemplary athletic competition but also great enterjump shot that Amos Huggins of Trail utilized
tainment.
throughout the first game. If he missed any of these
In the women’s division, it came down to
jump shots it’s hard to remember. The Warriors held it
Saige & Eve’s (Trail) against the Lady Seminoles of
down for awhile with some excellent rebounding by
Hollywood hustling it out for the championship. Both Duane Tigertail and stolen ball plays by Marl
teams made excellent showings in the earlier hours
Osceola. It was close all the way down to the last secbut considering the 3:20 a.m. start for this game it
onds when Trail scored for a 50 – 49 win.
was obvious sleep deprivation was a factor. Lady
In the second game, it was another case of
Seminoles made a good start but Saige & Eve’s
sleep deprivation and fatigue setting in and the other
apparently got a second wind because they could do
team seemingly gaining a second wind. Warriors
no wrong in this final match, winning the champidominated the second game with a twelve point lead
onship, 45 – 28. Team members were Nora Billie,
by the half. A clear sign of fatigue on Trail’s side was
Caryn Billie, Elizabeth Huggins, Jacquelin Osceola,
two missed free throws by Huggins. Taking an early
Brina Cypress, Stephanie Huggins, and Sheila Tiger.
lead and keeping it, Big Cypress Warriors became the
2001 Herman Osceola Tournament Champions with a
final score of 44 – 26. Team members were Arnold
Cypress, Frank Wells, Duane Tigertail, Bronson Hill,
Marl Osceola, Remus Griffin and Charlie Frye. The
Most Valuable Player trophy went to Remus Griffin
of Ft. Pierce.
First place finishers received jackets and the
championship team trophy, a beautiful brass eagle.
Second place winners received sweatshirts and a team
trophy, a glass eagle. By all standards the 2001
Herman Osceola Basketball Tournament was a grand
success in many ways especially for promoting and
supporting our people in athletics, sportsmanship and
dedication. The Big Cypress Recreation staff led by
Jack Gorton did a great job keeping the schedule running smoothly, cleaning the courts, manning the score
Women’s winning team “Saige and Eve.”
tables and staying awake.
Janice Billie
Bowlers Sammy Gopher, Rosie Billie, Arica and Shane Buck are still awaiting final bowling results.
By Ernie Tiger
and Noah Jim 14 pounds 13 ounces, 7th place – Ernie
BIG CYPRESS- The 1st Annual Howard
and Clyde Tiger 14 pounds, 8th place – Sonny and
Tiger Memorial Tournament, which took place May 4 Bronson 13 pounds 2 ounces, 9th place – Danny
– 5 was one of the tougher fishing tournaments that
Rodriguez and Jason Grasshopper 12 pounds 2
had taken place out on the Big Cypress Reservation
ounces, 10th place – Hank Nelson and Chris Osceola
this year. The L-28 Interceptor, which runs north and
12 pounds, 11th place – Milo Osceola and Allen
south past Alligator Alley where this years tournaUlrici 11 pounds and 2 ounces, 12th place – Miguel
ment took place, has lost considerable amounts of
and Greg 9 pounds 9 ounces, 13th place – Jason
water due to the drought which has plagued South
DiCarlo and John 3pounds 12 ounces, 14th place –
Florida this year. The lower water levels caused the
Howard Tommie and Tommie Billie 3 pounds, 15th
largemouth bass, usually plentiful in the canal, to
place – Philemon Bowers and Remus Griffin 2
move to deeper water depths where they were stacked pounds 9 ounces.
in tight schools. This made the bass even harder for
Thanks to the generous sponsors of the 1st
the anglers to locate in the already muddy waters.
Annual Howard Tiger Memorial Tournament:
Despite these conditions the tournament did
Big Cypress Recreation, Councilman David Cypress,
not go without good fish being caught. Big Cypress
Immokalee Council Representative Elaine Aguilar,
anglers Jerome Jumper and Fred Haberman took an
Immokalee Recreation, and Hollywood Recreation.
early lead during the first day weighing in their bag
limit (per day) of five bass at 13 pounds 2
ounces. They were followed closely by Frank
and Abe with 12 pounds 6 ounces, whose 5
pounds 2 ounces bass took Biggest Fish honors.
Strategy helped the Mike Tiger and
Moses Jumper team, who dropped anchor with
For The Record:
10 pounds 13 ounces for the day. “We found
Sanctioned events: Bareback Riding: 1st place –
fish and just stayed on them all day,” said the
Koty Brugh 10 pts. with a 74, 2nd place – Adam Turtle 9
teammates.
pts. (62). Steer Wrestling: 1st place – Robbie Chalfant 10
The second day of fishing brought
pts. (time 5.19 sec.), 2nd place – Naha Jumper 9 pts.
new weather and hope for anglers who did not
(5.61), 3rd place – Dean Conrad 8 pts. (7.33).
fair well on the first day of fishing. A light
Saddle Bronc: Ground $ - Koty Brugh and
breeze out of the west moved heavy cloud
Michael Henry. Calf Roping: 1st place – Josh Jumper 10
cover east of the tournament giving anglers the
pts. (20.85), 2nd place – Billy Joe Johns 9 pts. (29.38), 3rd
chance to sight cast on fish that were still bedplace – Alphonso Tigertail 8 pts. (29.74).
ding. Some anglers took advantage of the
Breakaway Roping: 1st place – Clarissa Bowers
morning feeding, which was not available the
10 pts. (6.06), 2nd place – Shelby Osceola 9 pts. (16.8).
first day during the tournament, bringing in
Breakaway Roping (50 and over): 1st place – Billy Joe
some of the bigger fish caught during the tourJohns 10 pts. (6.45), 2nd place – Earl Kirkland9 pts.
nament.
(11.88).
One of those teams who was able to
Team Roping: 1st place – Marvin Bowers/Amos
find the fish needed to position during the last
Tiger 10 pts. (9.32), 2nd place – Marty Johns/Adale
day of the tournament was Tom Koenes and
Driggers 9 pts. (17.27). Ground $ - Jeff Johns/Todd Johns,
Fred Phillips. They weighed in their final five
Rodney Osceola/Reno Osceola, Michael Henry/Robert
fish of the tournament at a total of 22 pounds
Youngblood, Paul Bowers, SR/Rudy Osceola, Alphonso
13 ounces bringing them all the way from
Tigertail/Josh Jumper, Billy Joe Johns/Robbie Chalfant,
eighth to third place.
Jason Grasshopper/Naha Jumper, Moses Jumper Jr./Happy
Jerome Jumper and Fred Haberman,
Jumper.
who had an early lead in the tournament, fell
Barrel Racing: 1st place – Ayze Henry 10 pts.
from first to fourth place after day two weigh(17.271), 2nd place – Holly Johns 9 pts. (17.313), 3rd
in – even though they took Second Biggest
place – Shelby Osceola 8 pts. (17.329). Novice Barrels:
Fish honors with a 4 pounds 11 ounces catch.
1st place – Jade Braswell 10 pts. (17.287), 2nd place –
The team’s lack of success allowed Frank and
Reba Osceola 9 pts. (18.471).
Abe and Mike and Moses to tie for first place
Bull Riding: 1st place – Koty Brugh 10 pts. (73),
when they brought in a remarkable 27 pounds.
2nd place – Doug Fish 9 pts. (72). All around cowboy:
Other fishermen, who faired well durKoty Brugh – 20 pts.
ing this tough tournament, included Team
Steve Young and Bo Young. They stayed consistent during the tournament, moving from sixth to
fifth place, with a total weigh of 15 pounds 11
ounces.
I would like to apologize from myself, Sonny and
In addition to cash prizes awarded at
Carlene to all the fisherman who participated in the First
the tournament all anglers had a chance to
Annual Howard Tiger Memorial Fishing Tournament for
receive gifts at a raffle. Assorted gifts were
the misunderstanding within our family.
awarded during lunch, which was provided by
I would also like for you to know that we did not
Hollywood Recreation.
For the Record: 1st place (tie) – Mike keep any of the prize money (Receipt # 3284717 dated
Tiger and Moses Jumper/Frank and Abe with a 5/8/0l) as recorded by the Accounting Department.
Please do not let this keep you from entering the
total 27 pounds, 3rd place – Tom Koenes and
Fred Phillips 22 pounds 13 ounces, 4th place – next tournament and please accept our apologies and thank
you for participating.
Jerome Jumper and Fred Haberman 21 pounds
— Ruscilla, Sonny & Carlene Tiger
14 ounces, 5th place – Steve and Bo Young 15
pounds 11 ounces, 6th place – Charlie Cypress
Janice Billie
Libby Blake
Howard Tiger Fishing Tournament
11
Rodeo Pros And Woes
percent Spanish descent, it would be safe to say that
nearly the entire town came out to the “Seminole
Wind Youth Ranch” to participate in the annual Cinco
de Mayo events being held there. Although many
though it was a Police convention, actually,
Seminole’s finest was there – in full force - basically
‘on call’ to handle any situation which might arise.
They were among the thousands of folks who
enjoyed the host of activities provided throughout the
day. The weather could not have
been better, and many enjoyed
basking in the sunshine while
others preferred to keep cool and
check out the events from under
the big chickee near the
Seminole food stand.
While a pool tournament was
going on indoors, outside was a
celebration of music, festivities,
fun, games and foods from the
various cultures represented at
the festival. The main attraction
of the day, however, was the
Cinco de Mayo rodeo – hosted
by the Immokalee Seminole
Community.
Scheduled to begin at 5 p.m.,
events were held up for half an
hour – in hopes that David
DeHass and the Hollywood participants would soon arrive. This
was not to happen. To the disappointment of everyone, DeHass’
truck broke down enroute, and as
usual, he had everyone – as well
as everyone’s horses – with
them. Rodeo officials started the
Marty Johns getting ready to put steer down.
events upon hearing that
those Hollywood cowboys
On April 28, seven (7) of Seminole’s finest
and cowgirls would be a no show.
A magnificent presentation by the
young bull riders donned their chaps and spurs and
headed to the Bergeron Rodeo Arena in David, to
lovely young cowgirls, followed by Emma
Johns of the Brighton Reservation – who carcompete in the Junior Bull Riding event. Bull riding
is considered “the most dangerous eight seconds in
ried the American flag through the Star
professional sports, and for the brave riders who take
Spangled Banner, made way for the Grand
on this challenge, those eight seconds is a rush of
Entry. It was an impressive demonstration that
left an emotional lump in the throats of most
pure adrenaline.
Those who participated in competition were
all spectators that afternoon. It made people
feel as proud to be an American, as did the
all from the Hollywood reservation. The seven riders
Cinco de Mayo event makes the Spanish peodid a great job, and two riders – Thomas Jasper and
Stephen Billie both scored 48 points – tying for first
ple about their own culture.
The first event on the program was
place. Nick Jumper pulled a 42 with Doul Gore on
his heels with 35. Brandtly Osceola, Huston Osceola the bareback riding. South Dakota cowboy
Koty Brugh took first place and racking up 10
and Jack Turtle followed in the scoring respectively.
points – scoring an impressive 74 for his nearThey all deserve a big pat on the back for their
efforts.
perfect ride. Adam Turtle took second place
with nine points – and a score of 62.
Junior bull riding was the only event the
Seminole cowboys participated in, and that event was
Steer wrestling was next up with a
long list of contenders vying for a top spot.
first on the list. Steve Osceola and David DeHass
were – as usual – among the crowd cheering on these Robbie Chalfant received first place and 10
young bull riders, along with parents and friends who points with a score of 5.19 followed by Big
Cypress cowboy, Naha Jumper, who received
also showed their support and encouragement.
nine points for his 5.61 second take down.
Dean Conrad placed third with eight points
WOES:
and a 7.33 score.
IMMOKALEE — Appropriately named
The Saddle Bronc riders were few
Cinco de Mayo (May 5) was a day for celebration of
and far between; and again, Koty Brugh
freedom and sovereignty for the Spanish people
picked up his check for first place, with
throughout the world – with the small Florida comMichael Henry taking second.
munity of Immokalee being no exception. With
The calf-roping event left Josh
Immokalee’s population being comprised of nearly 75
B. Secody
B. Secody
By B. Secody
PROS:
DAVIE, FL — The Davie Five Star Rodeo
is considered one of the premier professional rodeo
companies in the industry; and is a big deal for professional cowboys and cowgirls. To be invited to ride
in this prestigious event was quite an honor for some
of the young junior bull riders of the Seminole Tribe
of Florida.
May 25, 2001
Jumper, number two
son of Moses Jumper
Jr., in the number one
slot for money - winning 10 points for his
20.85 time. “Old
timer” Billy Joe Johns
showed he still has
what it takes as he and
Alphonso Tigertail battled for second place –
Johns taking it by a
mere .44 of a second.
The cowgirls
took first and second
place honors in the
Breakaway Roping category as Clarissa
Bowers of Brighton
received her 10 points
for first place with a
6.06 score – actually
beating out the winner
of the 50 and over category, Billy Joe Johns,
Calgary Johns making her very first turn.
who scored 6.45.
Shelby Osceola of
Tiger snapped up a first place check and 10 points
Hollywood came in second with nine points and a
with their impressive 9.32 performance. Marty Johns
score of 16.8. Second place in the over 50 breakand Adale Driggers eventually finished in second
away event was Earl Kirkland, who picked up nine
place turning a time of 17.27 – and each receiving
points with his 11.88 score.
their nine points and second place money.
Team roping drew 10 teams in competition.
Barrel Racing scores were close; and withEven those favored to win came upon hard luck that
out
the
latest
in time technology, the first place honday. Even those “seasoned” cowboys like Moses
ors would have been shared by Ayze Henry (who
Jumper Jr., Paul Bowers, Billy Joe Johns and Robert
actually took first place) – with her score of 17.271;
Youngblood – all who have been around since dirt –
had a bad day. The team of Marvin Bowers and Amos Holly Johns – 17.313; and Shelby Osceola – 17.329
points. Hundredths of seconds don’t seem like much
to your average “Joe”, but for these
hard-working young ladies – it meant
the difference between eight, nine or
10 points; and a first, second or third
place purse. Novice Barrel racers Jade
Braswell and Reba Osceola took first
and second place respectively with
17.287 and 18.471 scores.
The main and final event of the
Cinco de Mayo rodeo was the bull-riding event. The two winners – also a
very close call – were Koty Brugh with
a score of 73 – barely inching out
Doug Fish who ended the event in second place with his score of 72. Brugh
was named All Around Cowboy, but
all cowboys and cowgirls deserve congratulations for their efforts. Everyone
showed good sportsmanship – even
with the close scores. They know
there is always next time, and many
stated that it was good practice day for
them.
The next rodeo on the calendar is
scheduled to take place in Volusia
County (Deland, Florida) during the
weekend of May 18 and 19. Those
who made it to the finals will participate I this event, but everyone is
encouraged to go up there and root on
these young athletes who have done so
Koty Brugh - all-around cowboy.
well throughout the season.
B. Secody
The Seminole Tribune
The Seminole Tribune
12
May 25, 2001
The Seminole Tribune
13
Do you know what BSE is?
Hoof
Continued from page 1
clinical signs after an incubation period of 10
to 14 days.
A single case of HMD will have an
impact on every phase of the United States’
billion dollar annual animal and animal byproduct markets. All animals exposed to the
virus must be destroyed to prevent the spread
of the deadly disease.
Make yourself knowledgeable of the
tell-tale signs and act quickly if you suspect
any animal to be infected.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture
has set up a toll-free telephone hot line to
respond to questions from livestock producers
and consumers regarding the outbreak of
HMD. The number is (800) 601-9327. The
phone center is staffed by veterinarians and
import/export experts from the USDA Animal
and Plant Health Inspection Service.
It stands for Bovine Spongiform
Encephalopathy better know as Mad Cow
Disease. This is another problem facing the
United States’ cattle industry presently.
Recently worldwide media attention
to BSE has been implemented to reassure
consumers that every possible step is being
used to keep BSE out of the United States.
The Food and Drug Administration adopted
regulation 21 CFR 589.2000 prohibiting the
feeding of any mammalian-derived protein
(meat & bone meal) to any cattle or other
ruminant animals.
Beef packers and processors as well
as retail operations have established certification programs for suppliers to insure that they
have not been receiving any cattle that have
been feed mammalian derived protein.
Participating packers in the certification program have made it clear they will not except
or purchase any cattle from producers who
have not signed a certificate certifying that
none of their cattle have been fed any feed
containing mammalian derived tissues.
Locally the Okeechobee Livestock
Market has issued a letter you must sign stating you as a producer have not fed any mammalian derived protein in order to be able to
sell your livestock.
Do your part. Do not feed any mammalian-derived protein to your livestock. Feed
containing mammalian-derived protein has to
be identified with a warning on the label. Use
of any such feed should be avoided. Keep all
record up to one year concerning all animal
protein ingredients that you supply your cattle
with. Keep representative copies of labels
with your records from each type of feed you
purchase. Ranch inspections may be performed by the Food and Drug Administration
to verify that prohibited sources have not been
fed to cattle.
open 9-ball competition was held. Players had
to pay a $20 entry fee to participate. Divisions
were for both men and women with play
again running into the wee hours of the morning. Complete winners in all events follows.
Senior Scotch Doubles: 1st place –
Juanita and Russell Osceola, 2nd place –
Annie Jumper/Joe Junior Billie, 3rd place –
Continued from page 1
Mabel Osceola/Ronnie Doctor, 4th place –
a souvenir. They also came in handy when the
Louise Osceola/Harley Roberts, 5th place –
air conditioning in the gym
Alice and Buddy Sweat.
kicked into high gear as the night
Youth Boys: 1st place – Ray
became morning.
Yzagguire III, 2nd place – Nathan Billie,
Top winners in each
3rd place – Tony Tommie, 4th place –
division received a special comJosh Garza, 5th place – Jordon Jones.
memorative jean jacket besides
Youth Girls: 1st place – Nina Frias,
the $600 first place money. The
2nd place – Esmerelda Billie, 3rd place
youth received gift certificates to
– Ashley Billie, 4th place – Phalyn
the mall. Second through fifth
Osceola, 5th place – JoJo Osceola.
places each received $500, $400,
Men: 1st place – “Boogie” Nunez,
nd
$300, and $200, respectively.
2 place – Woody Wilson, 3rd place –
This year’s winners in
Jack Billie, 4th place – O.B. Osceola,
the adult division turned into a
5th place – Elrod Bowers.
family affair. “Boogie” Nunez
Women: 1st place – Theresa
took top honors among the men
Boromei, 2nd place – Jamie Osceola,
while sister Theresa (Nunez)
3rd place – Linda Jones, 4th place –
Boromei out shot the ladies for
Laura Clay, 5th place – Janel Billie.
first place.
Scotch Doubles: 1st place – Louise
L-R:
Jojo
Osceola;
Ashley
Billie,
Esmerelda
Billie;
Nina
Frias
Annie Jumper and Joe
Jim/Elrod Bowers, 2nd place – Virginia
and Juanita Osceola.
Junior Billie placed top among
Billie/Raymond Garza, 3rd place –
the seniors in singles division but
Linda Billie/Charlie Cypress, 4th place –
For the Record:
had to settle for second when they combined
Crystal
and Jamie Smith, 5th place – Verna
Senior Men: 1st place – Joe Junior
forces in the scotch doubles and lost in the
Billie/Ricky
Doctor.
Billie, 2nd place – Russell Osceola, 3rd place
finals to Juanita and Russell Osceola.
9-Ball Women: 1st place – Charlene
th
th
Top youth singles winners were Nina – Keno King, 4 place – Buddy Sweat, 5
Haynes, 2nd place – Louise Jim, 3rd place –
place – Eugene Bowers.
Frias, who won it from the winners bracket,
Reina Micco, 4th place – Theresa Boromei,
Senior Women: 1st place – Annie
and Ray Yzagguire III, who battled his way
5th place – Betty Osceola. Men: 1st place –
Jumper, 2nd place – Alice Sweat, 3rd place –
from the losers bracket and had to beat an
Javier
Chirino, 2nd place – Mario Truz, 3rd
Juanita Osceola, 4th place – Louise Billie, 5th place – Glen Olson, 4th place – Angel
undefeated Nathan Billie twice.
place – Louise Osceola.
After the Memorial tournament an
Chirino, 5th place – Corey Penrod.
L. Blake
Candy
Calling All Golfers
Here is the schedule for Hollywood’s Qualifying rounds for
Team Florida.
All reservation are welcome to play.
Ten rounds scheduled at Bonaventure C.C. (must play minimum 8 rounds). Saturday, June 9th on the west course for $24 green
fee. Saturday, June 23 on the east course for $29. Saturday, July 7 west course - $24. Sunday, July 15 - east - $29. Saturday, August 4 west - $24. Sunday, August 12 - east - $29. Sunday, August 19 - west $24. Saturday, September 8 - east - $34. Saturday, September 22 - west
- $29.
All tee times start at 12:56 p.m.
Women will play from the red tee. Senior men (50 and over)
will play from the white tee. Junuor men (18 and under) will play from
the white tee. Men (19 to 49) will play from the blue tee.
Follow all USGA rules. Ball is to be played down. Everything
is stroke play. Count all strokes and penalties. No Gimmies. Have
someone in your group keep your score card. Sign your score card and
turn it in to the pro-shop.
Only the top two in each division will represent Team Florida
at the 2002 Indigenous Games in Winnipeg next summer.
Any questions contact Bo Young at the Hollywood recreation
at (954) 989-9457.
320 S. E. 9th Street
Fort Lauderdale, FL. 33316
954-760-7600
The hiring of an attorney is an important decision that
should not be based solely upon advertisements before
you decide, ask us to send you free written information
about our qualifications and experience.
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S u s p e n d e d L i c e n s e • R e v o k e d L i c e n s e • Tr a f f i c Ti c k e ts • D U I
Maybe
We Can
Help?
May 25, 2001
Seminole In Alaska
Lost In The Hospital
The Story so far . . . This is Part 3 in a series about a
Seminole woman and her family’s year 2000 living in a remote part
of Alaska. Suffering with a brain injury, Seminole Linda Osceola
Fredericks and her son are air-lifted (first by helicopter, then by jet)
from her homestead in the Alaska outback to a Seattle hospital.
e landed in downtown Seattle at a municipal airport and
were taken by Ambulance to Harborview Medical Center
overlooking the city. Philemon had traveled from –20
degree weather to 50+ degree weather in a few hours without being
able to change his clothes. He tells me that he felt very strange
standing around in his heavy winter clothing with nobody else around
being dressed like that.
The Medical center was very full so there were no rooms
available when we arrived. After going through ER, I had to be out
into the Surgery Recovery room. The doctors found out that I had
two aneurysms in my brain, in different locations. They would have
operated the next morning, but I had to wait a day because a car accident came in and the victims had to be taken care of right away.
All this time I was just laying there, not knowing much.
Philemon was all alone in the hospital waiting room of a strange city.
My husband was flying out by bush airplane to catch a commercial
flight from Fairbanks to Seattle. People all over were praying for me.
I thank God for that now, because I was in no condition to pray for
myself.
My husband arrived in the late evening of the 22nd.
Philemon had already been in the waiting room for over 24 hours.
Although it was important for me to be operated on, my husband was
glad that he had a chance to see me before I went into surgery.
On the morning of the 23rd I went into surgery. The doctor
told me that if they found the aneurysm that was bleeding, they could
postpone operating on the other one for about a week. If they had to
operate on the other one also, it would be a much longer and more
difficult operation. Fortunately, they started on the one that needed
attention the most.
My son Mike, his family, and my adopted sister Anita and a
friend of hers came from Florida the next day but I was too groggy
from surgery to remember it well. Philemon went to stay with them
at their hotel about 20 miles from the hospital. That was a big help
for Philemon because his endurance had been severely tested by then.
My husband stayed in the waiting room a day longer until he
could find a hotel that was walking distance from the hospital. He
did not want to risk being away from me any more than he had to. In
his worried condition, driving through the city would have been just
too dangerous. For the first couple of days, he says that he was even
getting lost just walking around the hospital. I was not always aware
of it at the time, but he was there, either in the waiting room, or later
in my hospital room, almost every minute that he could be.
Everything went better than expected with the first operation
and I had my second operation on February 29. They had to go a lot
deeper for that one and I had a black eye from it for about two weeks.
I was doing pretty good, so the doctors started talking about discharging me. My son Mike had to go back to Florida about March 6, so
Philemon went to stay with his dad at the hotel near the hospital.
On March 9th I was to be discharged to go back to
Fairbanks. My husband came to the hospital that morning with some
clothes for me to change into, but pretty soon he noticed that something was not right. I did not know what he was going on, but he told
the nurse that I was not communicating like I usually do. The nurse
told the doctors, who started checking me out. They discovered that
some blood vessels in my brain had begun to spasm.
— Next issue: A slow recovery, a son strikes out on his
own, and a bad crop season.
W
The Seminole Tribune
14
John Wayne Huff Focuses On Community
served as Brighton Board
Representative.
Other issues that Huff
addressed included restoring pride
in the Brighton Community
through such projects as cleaning
Michael James
By Michael James
BRIGHTON — In a preelection interview with the
Seminole Tribune, John Wayne
Huff shared some of the key issues
of his campaign and platform. For
Huff, communication between
council and communities is a
major issue that he will work
to improve.
“Communication is
just not there anymore. We
used to have community meetings....how come we don’t do
that anymore?” Huff told the
Tribune. Huff used examples
such as the Hard Rock
Café/Hotel proposal.
“It was on the agenda
14 times yet the community
knew nothing. . . same thing
with Dream Catcher,” he said.
Huff is firmly committed to the idea that everything should go to the community first, not as he said, “jump
over the community.”
“Everything jumps
over us and when things don’t
go their (Council’s) way they
back up to the community,”
said Huff who promised fair
and equal access to the Council
Representative should he be
elected.
“I want your input but I
also want to be your voice,” said
Huff who also added that he
would promise to be available
“24/7.”
“I’ve done that before,”
he said referring to the time he
John Wayne Huff
up SR 721 and accelerating efforts
to get people housed. Huff also
said that improving the relationship between the community and
the council would go a long way
to restoring pride.
As far as housing, Huff
reminded the large gathering of his
constituents that someday all of
the young people are going to
need a home.
“We have good people in
good positions that are willing to
work. We have the equipment
for home sites and we should
be ready to respond to the
needs of the people. I want to
do this for the people. We
should not have to rely on outside contractors,” said Huff.
Huff also said that he
wants to make seniors the priority they once were. The same
goes for Tribal youth.
“If we can spend $40
million for a jet we certainly
could invest something for our
kids,” he said. He plans to
begin by improving access to
recreational facilities by adding
staff. Huff also plans to have a
community meeting for ‘kids
only’ so they can have some
input and be able to learn about
how the political process
works.
In the hours following
the election, John Wayne Huff
learned of his victory in the bid
for Brighton Council
Representative. He took time to
share this thought with the
Tribune,
“I would just like to
thank the people who stood behind
me during this election. I would
also like to thank the entire community and I will include everyone
if they voted for me or not.”
Paul Bowers Hosts Campaign
Dinner In Immokalee
B. Secody
By B. Secody
the community.
Paul Bowers of the
After presenting his platBig Cypress reservation has
form, Bowers invited questions
thrown his hat in the political
from those in attendance.
arena, and is vying for the
Following the blessing of the
position of Big Cypress Board
food presented by Louise
Representative – a seat currentMotlow, he invited everyone to
ly held by Mondo Tiger.
join him and his family in a deliBowers is no stranger
cious meal of barbeque chicken,
to politics, as he previously
ribs, potato salad, beans, deserts
served on the Board of
and soft drinks.
Directors for Big Cypress in
Bowers is of the Panther
1996-1998. He feels he would
clan. He is the son of Mary Ann
like to reclaim this position to
Cypress Bowers. He is originally
provide additional monetary
from the Brighton reservation.
generating projects for the Big
After completing high school, he
Cypress community.
attended college in Lawrence,
On Tuesday, April 24,
Kansas. After serving time in the
Buster hosted a campaign dinArmed Forces, he moved to the
ner in Immokalee to make himBig Cypress reservation, and marself available to community
ried wife Linda. They have four
members who have questions
children: Pauletta, age 22;
about his proposed projects.
Clarissa, age 20; Paul Jr., age 18;
The evening started at 7 p.m. at
and Wilson, age 15.
the Immokalee Recreation
On election day, Bowers
Paul Bowers
Center.
will be going up against four
His platform –
other contenders for the position
although short and to the point stressed the need for
of Big Cypress Board Representative: Charlie
the acquisition of more cattle and land use for the
Cypress, Alfonso Tigertail, Mary Jean Koenes and
area. He stated that, with the current count of 1500
Clifton Billie. He states that, if elected, he will do
head of cattle in Lake Placid, and 3500 head located
his best to represent the people of Big Cypress and
on the 13-section area of Miccosukee land (near the
work diligently towards improving existing Board
Miccosukee Service Plaza)- there is plenty of room
programs. He also states that he will remain focused
for more cattle to be purchased. He also addressed
on future projects that will further benefit the comconcerns over the neglect of existing pastures.
munity – young and old alike.
Bowers stated that he would also like to see the
Board work closer
with the citrus programs, and plans a
feasibility study for
consideration of a
campground to be
located in Immokalee.
One of his goals for
the community is to
generate more revenue
through Board programs.
Bowers currently works with kids
interested in 4-H, as
well as with the Horse
Club. He has been
involved with the
youth rodeos and
would like to see additional funds allocated
Friends enjoy a BBQ dinner in Immokalee (@ Paul Bowers Campaign event).
for youth projects in
Visit The Real Indian Country
www.indiancircle.com
May 25, 2001
Alex Johns’ Campaign Speech
*Transcript from Tampa campaign dinner.
I just want to start off and thank everyone
for accepting me and supporting me here in Tampa, I
know when I first come down here two years ago
and tried to run I was nervous, ... I’m still nervous,
but I’ve got a lot more confidence now than I did
then. I know what it takes to do a good job now. I
have the utmost confidence that I’m the right person
for the position. And I appreciate you all coming out
and supporting us here today.
Some of the new business ventures I’ve
brought to the tribe…the Board side has sort of been
still for about the last fifteen years. There’s only
been two new business ventures brought to the board
previous to me. The whole reason the board exists is
for economic development for the Tribe. It’s not necessarily the charitable side that’s the council’s position. Some of the things I campaigned on last time, it
really took a Councilperson to do. I didn’t know that
until getting in the clique and learned how everything goes.
One of the things I started was the Brighton
Tucker Ridge Shell Pit. One of the main reasons I
wanted to get the shell pit going was we had a bunch
of holes out in Brighton we were trying to swim
around in. They were littered with beer bottles just
mud holes is all they were.
The EPA tried to come in and fine the
Seminole Tribe to clean these holes up. After
researching them we found the BIA caused this problem, and they were the same departments as the
department of the Interior. I went to Washington,
D.C. to talk to the lobbyist there. We didn’t cause
this problem. The BIA did and I don’t think we
should pay to clean it up.
At that same time we also lobbied with
them to dig a recreational lake for the Brighton community. This is where we have the 4th of July activities, barbecues, and volleyball tournaments. It was
just sort of an eye sore but it was all we had in
Brighton, so we decided to clean it up and we got a
reclamation plan in place. When it’s done it’ll be a
21-acre recreational lake with chickees, beaches,
floating docks and water slides. It’s going to be a
nice area that people can go to for recreation.
A lot of the material that’s coming out of
the lake is going right to the community. We’re
building house pads with the material… the preschool pad, the clinic pad, the new cattle and range
pad, the new swimming pool pad. All of this material
came from the Tribe, from our pit at a discounted
price so this saved a lot of money. Probably half the
cost it would have been if they’d have had to go outside the Tribe to buy the material.
The main thing with the pit, it was developed to make money. Three months into the business
we’re out of the red and showing a profit. At that
time we decided to go ahead and upgrade our equipment. We had old equipment in there so we had to
go back in the hole again and purchase brand new
equipment. Some of it runs around $250,000 apiece.
We’ve been in business now for exactly one year and
right now the pit is generating about $10,000 a week
and we’re just getting started. The potential is huge
for this thing. If I’m back in again I’d like to see this
pit continue. I think this is going to be a good source
of income for the Tribe.
The other venture I started was the Parker
Island Cattle Company. It was another lease that we
got. If we were to liquidate it tomorrow we’d have
approximately two million dollars worth of cattle on
this place. The economy really took an upward
swing on the cattle business. We’re doing really
good with cattle prices. This has been a profitable
venture.
We also fed some feed lot cattle this year.
That’s the second time the Tribes tried this. We tried
it before with our own cows at one time. It wasn’t
successful. We lost a little money. We fed 200 head
this year at Lubbock Feeders.
The Bellamy Brothers actually own this
feed lot. We just got a report back on these cows.
They fed for about a twenty-dollar a head profit. It
doesn’t sound like much but it’s about a three to five
percent return on our dollar, which is comparable to
a lot of bank loans at this time because of the interest
rates.
Our sugar cane took a hard lick because
sugar prices fell so bad. It’s still generating money
for us. It’s still making money while other people are
losing money because we don’t have to pay for land
tax and we didn’t have to pay for the property so it’s
still proving to be successful.
Our citrus took a really hard lick. One of
the groves that had a canker contamination quarantine doesn’t look very good. We’re not going to be
lifted out of it for a couple of years. We can still sell
our product but it just doesn’t get the price that it
would if we weren’t under quarantine. We’re just
going to cut back on cost and try to keep it going till
the quarantine is lifted.
We also took the campground back, which
has been known as Russ and Sonny’s. Now it’s the
Brighton Campground and Trading Post. We’ve got a
little trading store there. The store is beautiful; the
campground is beautiful. We’re having a lot of people come into the campground now. Before it was a
limited deal. Whoever’s buddy wanted to come in
they had to be buddies with the person managing it.
Now it’s open to all of the public and we’re looking
at expanding it making it twice as big.
As far as the cattle program…You’re going
to hear some of my opposition campaign on the cattle program. The cattle program is one of the biggest
subsidies of the board. The actual Tribal cattle program is successful as far as Tribally owned. The
individual owners in the past haven’t made any
money and the board had to subsidize them. Some of
my opposition thinks that’s the way it should be; I
don’t think it should be that way. I think that if
they’re going to be in the cow business they need to
support their own business. The Tribe doesn’t need
to support it. We’re already letting them use the land
for nothing so I think they should support their own
business.
This is the first time since I’ve been in
office that we’ve brought the cattle program out of
debt. We got this by having the cattle owners pay
their bills. In the past the politicians would let them
be lax on their bills; they wouldn’t pay them. When I
got in we made it mandatory that they get all their
bills up to date. We’re not having to subsidize as
much as in the past. Everyone is compliant with the
program.
The cash crop is rising every year, which is
a good sign. We have the pastures in great shape.
Since I came to office this is the first time we’ve had
total acreage mowed on the reservation. We’ve got
12 thousand improved acres there. The administration before me, when we tried to mow it ourselves it
was running around $250,000 a year to get the place
mowed. I decided to get a contractor to come in at a
set rate per acre. I got it down to $100,000 and its’
the first time we’ve ever had the total property
mowed in one year. This is the second year we’ve
done this and we’re starting on the third. That saved
us some money there and we’re getting a better job
done.
We just sold our calves. A lot of people are
afraid to change things. For the last 15 years we’ve
sold our calves on the Livestock Video Sales
Superior. I took initiative this year to change it. I
didn’t think we were getting the best prices. I got a
little opposition from some of the cattle owners.
They were so used to selling them on video they
thought that’s the way to do it. This year we went
out privately and got bids on the open market from
other cattle buyers and it proved to be successful. We
came in with about a 5 cent a head average over
what the video sales brought at the same time as well
as not having to pay the 2 to 3 cent a pound commission. We saved the tribe a substantial amount of
money by doing this.
We got the Brangus Bull heard up to 100
per cent. This is another reason why our calves are
bringing top dollar. We actually have a product now
that everybody wants. We were going the wrong way
with our bull heard; we were using the wrong type of
bull. Now we’ve got the type of bull that’s working
for the market.
The big project I got done was the cattle
and range building. This was largely with the support
of Mitchell Cypress and the Tribal council. We got
the building done in six months time and within
budget. It’s a beautiful building, we’re going to have
the grand opening and I want to invite everyone
down and let them walk through the building. There
are a lot of personal touches to it. There are 42 cattle
owners in Brighton. Everybody’s brand is engraved
in the tile. We used cypress wood throughout There’s
a lot of personal touches throughout and I’m proud
of it and I’d like everybody to come down for the
grand opening.
As far as the charitable functions that I’ve
help support: I’ve supported everyone that’s ever
come to me, every event, I’ve tried, that my budget
would allow. I’ve supported softball, Tee Ball, golf,
bowling, I’ve put on rodeo bull riding clinics for the
youth, and I’ve sponsored dance classes, Tai-KwonDo and fishing tournaments. We held our first annual
hunting tournament in Brighton this year. It was a
hog-hunting tournament; Marty Johns won. We had
it near Thanksgiving and everybody liked it.
We had our first annual mud bog. JR Huff
and David Snow, it was their brainchild, they
thought it would be a good activity for
Thanksgiving. We actually had over 200 tribal members come out and participate in the mud bog.
Anywhere from babies in strollers to kids on 4
wheelers, motorcycles, we had foot races, mud bog
races, and I think we’re going to continue to do this.
We also had our first annual barbecue cookoff. We had 12 teams that came down. I don’t think
we had any teams from Tampa so next year I’d like
to get someone from Tampa to come down and participate. All the guys were bragging and actually it
was a girl that won the barbecue rib cook off –
Theresa Nunez.
I supported the March of Dimes functions
that we put on. The sobriety walks, the Christmas,
Thanksgiving, Indian Day, and 4th of July.
As far as education field trips…I’ve participated in them and I’ve attended some of them. The
critter hunts I went with the kids and we had a good
time. I try to attend every senior birthday party with
Vicky and Leah’s support. They keep me in touch
with whose birthday is when.
As far as the one that people don’t like to
talk about that’s a big part of our job is the funerals.
During the funerals we do whatever we can to make
sure that the family has time to grieve without having to worry about any expenses. I pay for all of the
food, I cut all of the firewood, and we try to do
everything that we can so that the family doesn’t
have to worry about it in their time of mourning.
Thing I’m looking into for the future…I’m
on the verge of working on an import and export
deal for commodities. Not the commodities food that
we were used to getting but... it actually is but on a
much larger scale. It’s dealing with grain, beef, steel,
gas, big products that moves worldwide. There’s
some breaks that we may be able to get as a sovereign nation. Tax issues, tariff issues, duty issues. I’m
looking into that with some attorneys now. It looks
like it’s going to be pretty promising, bringing in a
lot of income for the tribe. All we’re going to have to
do is be the broker. We’ll let the people that know
the business handle the business.
My ultimate goal is to bring a second dividend for the board. This one here could be the big
one. If we can get this thing going it’s going to take
pushing our sovereignty just the same way they did
with gaming. It can be done. If I’m re-elected I’ll
work hard to get this done.
Also with the shell pit, we’re working on
getting DOT status for it. This will increase our
sales. I’m also trying something new. I’m trying to
get it licensed as a minority owned pit. Nobody’s
done this before but it will open up a market. The
DOT will let the pit suffice for minority workers. In
other words, if somebody out here gets a contract on
this highway, by them buying the materials from the
Seminole Tribe, they won’t have to actually hire the
minority worker at the job site. I think this is going
to be pretty promising for the Seminole Tribe and the
pit.
If any of you read the paper that came out
today, some of my opposition really bashed me in
there pretty good. They portrayed it that I have more
white people working for me than Indian. Well I just
want to let everyone know that those are not the
facts. The facts are, I have 75 per cent
Seminole Tribal members employed. On average
they’re paid 15% more than non-tribal members. So
I just want to let the records show what she stated in
the newspaper wasn’t the truth.
I’m up here (Tampa) with John Wayne
Huff. The reason I’m here with John
Wayne is because I see a lot of things going on that
you all aren’t getting what you could be getting, and
that’s the truth… the fact of the matter.
The housing issue needs to be addressed
here. There’s so much more that I could do if you all
had the property to do it. The reason you don’t have
it is you don’t have a voice pushing for it. The people up there in council make the decisions. They say
yea or nea. Well, if you don’t have somebody backing you and wanting to build your houses your not
going to get them.
This man (John Wayne Huff) is going to
campaign on that and he’ll get the job done. With
him doing that it will open me up as a board representative to do more for you as far as landscaping
your yards. I want to keep the 4H program here and I
know you’re running out of space. I’m a big believer
in the 4H program. I put a lot of money into our kids
this year at the sale. I think it’s great program. It
teaches kids responsibility. I think it’s a great program. So if we can get you some land and some
houses I think we could keep that 4H program going
and I support that 100 per cent.
I want to thank you all for coming out today
and remember me on May 14th. Thank you.
— Submitted by Mark Madrid
The Seminole Tribune
15
May 25, 2001
Classified • Announcements
Happy Birthday
Congratulations
Congratulations and good luck in
all your endeavors for you have proven
your worthiness!
Happy belated birthday Gabe!
From “The Gang.” Yours truly, Lorraine,
Catlin, Noel, and Uly.
Happy 8th Birthday to Ali
Nunez on May 20. We love you very
much and hope you get everything you
wish for. Love Daddy David, Mommy
Anita, and sisters Ami, Airi, and Apple.
Happy birthday to my other
baby Willie Jim McKinley Osceola who
was born on May 21. Love you very
much. From Aunt Doris and gang.
Happy birthday to my baby
girl, Meyante (Dominique), born on
May 1, 1989. Love you very much
Grandma Doris.
Happy birthday to our #1
Favorite Sister, Dominique Sharaine
Osceola on May 1. We love you so
much! Be good and stay healthy. One
Love, Marlon, Letitia, Egoosh, Denise
and John Rhodes.
Happy birthday to Grandma
(Doris) on May 17. Mom you’re the
“Great Oz”. We love you, thank you for
taking care of us; there’s no one like you.
One Love; Apeehoy, Meyante,
Shagahle, Shishee, Melokmeche, and
Coowacooche.
Happy birthday to Rita
(Bonita Jean Jumper), Anita Osceola
(Eeche), Amos (Uncle Amo) Frank,
Peggy Barnett and Iretta Tiger. From
the Otter Gang.
With no shoes on his feet
Walks with Seminole brother undefeat
He would have been a Seminole man
Walking proudly on a beautiful land
His love for the Seminole
Clearly seen on canvas stories of old
Where clans abound in the Seminole land
End of summer swamp- apples fall to the
Florida sand
Panther squalls behind the cypress tree
Otters play envisioned by Guy La bree
Silent poetry painted by his hand
Barefoot artist treads the Florida sand
Spirit of Seminoles
April 1, 2001 Mr. and Mrs. Eric
James Cypress. Eric is the son of the late
William B. Cypress and Ruth M.
Osceola. Barbara Henry is daughter of
Bobby and Annie Henry.
Notices
8th Annual Seminole Wellness
Conference – July 15 – 20, at the Marco
Island Hilton. Deadline for applications is
June 8, you must commit yourself to participate for the duration of the conference.
Contacts are; Ralph Billie at (954) 9622009; Michele Thomas or Rita Gopher at
(863) 763-4128; Helene Buster at (863)
983-5151; Billie Napper at (941) 6576567; Tom Ryan at (813) 621-2811, Sally
Tommie at (954) 967-3700 or Andy
Buster at (305) 223-8380.
The 44th Annual Yakama
Nation Treaty Days All Indian Rodeo –
June 9 - 10 in White Swan, Washington.
Contact secretary Rhonda Strom and
Betty Sampson at (509) 848-2854.
The Native American Business
Alliance Conference 2001 – August 12 –
14. Call Alliance at (248) 988-9344 and
visit us at www.native-american-bus.org.
25th Annual Miami/Bahamas
Goombay Festival – June 2 - 3 in
Coconut Grove. For applications or information call headquarters at (305) 5671399.
17th Annual Native American
Journalists Association Convention –
June 13 – 16 in Buffalo New York. For
more info call (612) 729-9244 or fax at
(612) 729-9373.
National American Indian
Housing Council Annual Convention
and Trade Show – June 4 - 6 in
Albuquerque, New Mexico. To be held at
the Hyatt Regency, for information call
NAIHC at (202) 789-1754.
Free Poetry Contest – Deadline
is June 5. One entry of 21 lines or less.
Send to Free Poetry Contest, 1257
Siskiyou Blvd., PMB 4, Ashland, OR
97520, or go to www.freecontest.com.
Too Fabulous Art and Funky
Antique Market – June 17, 9 a.m. to 4
p.m. FREE. Find vintage items, antiques,
art and other goodies at this event. Call
(954) 921- 3274 or visit www.artandculturecenter.org.
Free Tax Workshops – June 1 –
26 at various sites. The Florida
Department of Revenue, as part of their
educational program to help taxpayers
understand and meet their obligations. For
info contact: Alberto Collazo, at (954)
967-1821, e-mail: [email protected]
or visit site athttp://sun6.dms.state.fl.us/dor
On Line Spanish Courses –
Beginning June. Continuing Education
Department will offer Spanish courses.
Fees range from $85 to $120 for an 8week course. To register call (954) 4756960.
Toll-Free Dental Hotline –
Saturday, June 6. Dial 1-800-SMILE 33,
to ask dentists any oral health questions.
Receive free dental advice and request
local referrals. From 7 a.m. until Noon.
N. A. Y. O. Baseball & Softball
– July 20 - 21. For information contact;
Hollywood Gym (954) 989-9457, Joe
Collins (954) 931-7793 or Sunshine Frank
(954) 966-6300, ext. 1305.
Indian Youth of America Youth
Camp Program – June 29 – July 7 (deadline June 18) or August 10 – 17 (deadline
being July 30). Ages 10 – 14 years. For
general information call (712) 252-3230.
Northern Plains Tribal Arts
2001 – Sept. 27 – 30 in Sioux Falls, South
Dakota. American Indian Services, Inc. at
(800) 658-4797 or (605) 334-4060.
12th Annual Protecting Mother
Earth Conference – August 2 – 5 in
Penticton, British Columbia, Canada. For
information call En’Owkin Centre at
(250) 493-7181, email: [email protected],
web site: www.ienearth.org.
Prairie Island Dakota Singing
& Dancing Championships Pow Wow –
July 6 – 8. Free admission, need social
security number to register. Call (651)
267-3023 and leave message.
Haskell Alumni Association of
Oklahoma Reunion — The 2001 HAAO
Annual Reunion & Golf Scramble will be
held Sept. 14, 15, 16 at the Adam’s Mark
Hotel in downtown Tulsa, Oklahoma.
All Haskell Indian Nations
University Alumni and friends are invited.
Reserve your room early and ask for the
special Haskell rates; (800) 444-2326.
Friday evening reception; Saturday golf
scramble, dinner (must be reserved) and
dance; and Sunday morning Brunch.
Request information from Joyce
Childers Bear at (918) 756-8700, ext. 602,
email: [email protected]; or, Flo
Tanner Spotted Bear at (918) 342-6403.
See you in September!
Deadlines
Seminole Tribune
June 15 Issue • June 1 Deadline
July 6 Issue • June 22 Deadline
July 27 Issue • July 13 Deadline
Without uttering a word
His soul speaks eloquently, unheard
Silently speaks with his hand
Ev’ry stroke of brush depicts the Florida
sand
Affinity with the Seminole
Grew strong with the folklore told
He understood where most folks don’t
understand
You can tell it in ev’ry stoke of his hand
Michael O. James poses with sisters
Irene James (L) and Gisela Vavra who
came with other family and friends to
support him on the joyous occasion.
Michael O. James graduated on
Saturday, May 5 from Indian River
Community College’s Registered Nursing
Program. Michael graduated with a 3.8
GPA. Michael plans to continue his education and has been accepted to the
University of North Carolina in Chapel
Hill. He will be working at the University
of North Carolina Hospital, one of the
world’s leading research hospitals, in the
critical care step down unit for organ
transplant recipients. He and his family
leave for North Carolina at the end of
June.
Michael has worked for the
Seminole Tribune for the past four years
as our on-going EIRA photographer and
reporter. He will be extremely missed by
all those residents on the Brighton reservation, as well as us here at the Tribune.
Of course he will keep us informed on all
the latest clinical research findings on
diabetes.
Poems
Barefoot Man
Public Service Announcement
— The University of Fort Lauderdale is
offering special programs to earn a college degree within an innovative Christian
learning environment. Remedial and special entrance courses are available for
anyone, who has the heart for higher
learning and commitment for study.
Enroll now for Summer and Fall
2001. For information, call (954) 4867728. The University of Fort Lauderdale
is located at 4200 N.W. 16th St. in
Lauderhill.
Bring Your Pets — The Pet Fair
activities have been set FY - 2001. We
will be holding these activities at the
Hollywood Gym in the parking lot on
June 16, 2001.
If you have any questions or concerns please call Environmental Health at
954-962-2009.
Thank You
On March 27 Hollywood
Council Representative Max Osceola Jr.
unselfishly gave me and my daughter
Jessica his personal Miami Heat basketball game tickets. We had a wonderful
time at the game. We’d like to say thank
you to Max and his family.
I also would like to say that the
game was a special one because we saw
Alonzo Mourning making his first return
after being absent for almost the entire
season.
Sho-na-bay-sha
Mem-mung-ela-ka
“Cowbone”
As the Spirit of Seminoles then and now
Like a cool breeze blows across prairies,
hammocks and the Everglades
A Spirit that flourishes over this
enchanting and beautiful land,
Our Creator touches a land that gives life,
beauty and bounty to nurture our minds,
bodies and spirit
The Spirit of traditions, culture, legends, stories and songs
The courage and strength to be as one people
The Spirit of healing, caring, helping
taught by our elders
The Spirit of wisdom through the Creator’s
love
We give thanks to our Creator for this
spirit of life now and forever
— Ralph Billie
Grave-Robbing
There are those who rob our “Native”
graves
And call it archeology
And “Uncle Sam” gives funds for this,
Called government grants, you see
Then there are those more honest,
Who don’t bother to hide behind,
Scientific study. They just want what
they can find
No matter what fancy name it’s called,
It’s still a desecration;
And to us it is a crime against,
The entire “Native” nation.
To protect “White” man’s graves
They have passed laws, “To Whit…”,
But when it comes to “Native” mounds,
They just don’t give a - -it!
How would You feel if someone,
Dug up Your family plot,
And took whatever there remained,
Of your Mother, or your Pop?
Would you care what it was called?
Or would you just see red,
For them to have the audacity,
To desecrate Your dead?
We don’t care what name they give it,
Nor whose face it saves,
“White” men may call it science,
But to us it’s Robbing-Graves!
— Jacquelyn Kay
Jobs
Job Title:
Open Date:
Close Date:
Salary:
Location:
Job Title:
Open Date:
Close Date:
Salary:
Location:
Job Title:
Open Date:
Close Date:
Salary:
Location:
Job Title:
Open Date:
Close Date:
Salary:
Location:
Job Title:
Open Date:
Close Date:
Salary:
Location:
Job Title:
Open Date:
Close Date:
Salary:
A-Built/CAD Drafter
Jan. 8, 2001
Until Filled
$26,000 annually w/ benefits
Hollywood, Utilities
Patient Services Clerk
Nov. 7, 2000
Until Filled
$18,720 annually w/ benefits
Health/manged Care, BC
Counselor
Nov. 7, 2000
Until Filled
Negotiable
Family Services, Brighton
Community Health Educator
3-28-01
Until Filled
$30,000 annually w/ benefits
Health, Hollywood
Nutritionist
3-28-01
Until Filled
$35,000 annually w/ benefits
Health, Hollywood
Site Manager
3-28-01
Until Filled
Negotiable with benefits
Location:
Hotmeals, Hollywood
Job Title:
Open Date:
Close Date:
Salary:
Location:
Tribal Clerk/Admin. Assistant
3-28-01
Until Filled
$24,960 with benifits
Secretary Treasurer’s Office
Hollywood
Job Title:
Open Date:
Close Date:
Salary:
Location:
Surveillance Operator
3-28-01
Until Filled
$17,680 with benifits
Gaming, Brighton
Job Title:
Open Date:
Close Date:
Salary:
Location:
Operator/ Maintenance Trainee
Job Title:
Open Date:
Close Date:
Salary:
Location:
Tribal Outreach/Worker
3-28-01
Until Filled
$20,300 with benifits
Family Services, Brighton
Job Title:
Open Date:
Close Date:
Salary:
Location:
Custodian
3-28-01
Until Filled
$15,600 with benifits
Ahfachkee, Big Cypress
Job Title:
Medical Social Worker
3-28-01
Until Filled
$17,680 with benifits
Utilities, Brighton
Chickee Baptist Church
64th Ave. and Josie Billie
Hollywood Seminole Reservation
Sunday Morning Worship 10 a.m.
Sunday Evening Worship 6 p.m.
Wednesday Prayer Meeting 7 p.m.
Rev. Arlen Payne: Pastor
(954) 894-5651
Open Date:
Close Date:
Salary:
Location:
3-28-01
Until Filled
Negotiable with benefits
Family Services, Big Cypress
Job Title:
Open Date:
Close Date:
Salary:
Location:
Permanent Sub. Teacher
3-28-01
Until Filled
$12.50 per hour with benefits
Ahfachkee School, BC
Job Title:
Open Date:
Close Date:
Salary:
Location:
Surveillance Operator
3-28-01
Until Filled
$13,644 with benifits
Gaming, Coconut Creek
Job Title:
Open Date:
Close Date:
Salary:
Location:
Cultural Language Instructor
3-28-01
Until Filled
$28,120 with benifits
Cultural Education, Imm.
Job Title:
Open Date:
Close Date:
Salary:
Location:
Gaming Clerk
3-28-01
Until Filled
$17,200 with benifits
Gaming, Imm.
Job Title:
Open Date:
Close Date:
Salary:
Location:
Surveillance Operator
3-28-01
Until Filled
$17,680 with benifits
Gaming, Imm.
Job Title:
Open Date:
Close Date:
Salary:
Location:
Teacher Aide (3/4 yr. class)
3-28-01
Until Filled
$18,150 with benifits
Ahfachkee, B.C.
Job Title:
Open Date:
Close Date:
Salary:
Location:
Surveillance Operator
3-28-01
Until Filled
$17,680 with benifits
Gaming, Tampa
Job Title:
Open Date:
Close Date:
Salary:
Location:
Youth Center Attendant
April 25, 2001
Until Filled
$16,640 with benifits
Juvenile Justice, Hwd.
Job Title:
Open Date:
Close Date:
Salary:
Location:
Bookkeeper/Office Asst
April 18, 2001
Until Filled
Negotiable with benifits
Natural Resources, Brtn.
Job Title:
Open Date:
Close Date:
Salary:
Location:
Administrative Assistant
3-28-01
Until Filled
Negotiable with benifits
Job Title:
Open Date:
Close Date:
Salary:
Planning & Development, Hwd.
Gaming Inspectors (5)
3-28-01
Until Filled
$28,000 with benifits
Location: Gaming, Hwd.
Job Title: Operator/
Maintenance Trainee
Open Date:3-28-01
Close Date: Until Filled
Salary:
$17,680 benifits
Location: Utilities, Brtn.
Job Title: Community
Health/Rep
Open Date:3-28-01
Close Date: Until Filled
Salary:
$18,700 benifits
Location: Health, B.C.
Job Title: Elementary/
Middle School Teacher
Open Date:April 18, 2001
Close Date: Until Filled
Salary:
Negotiable with benifits
Location:
Ahfachkee, B.C.
Job Title:
Open Date:
Close Date:
Salary:
Location:
Pre-K Teacher
April 18, 2001
Until Filled
Negotiable w/ benifits
Ahfachkee, B.C.
Job Title:
Open Date:
Close Date:
Salary:
Location:
A/P Representatives
April 18, 2001
Until Filled
$18,720 with benifits
Health, Hollywood
Job Title:
Open Date:
Close Date:
Salary:
Location:
Administrative/Assistant
April 18, 2001
Until Filled
Negotiable with benifits
Governmental Affairs, Hwd.
Job Title:
Open Date:
Close Date:
Salary:
Location:
Reporter
May 9, 2001
Until Filled
$19,760 with benifits
Communications, Hwd.
Job Title:
Open Date:
Close Date:
Salary:
Location:
Licensed Practical Nurse
December 27, 2000
Until Filled
$24,900 with benifits
Health, Brighton
Job Title:
Open Date:
Close Date:
Salary:
Location:
Teacher Aid
April 18, 2001
Until Filled
$13,644 with benifits
Ahfachkee, B.C.
Job Title:
Open Date:
Close Date:
Salary:
Location:
Gaming Clerk
February 28, 2001
Until Filled
$17,200 with benifits
Gaming, Tampa
Job Title:
Open Date:
Close Date:
Salary:
Location:
Recreation Aid
May 9, 2001
Until Filled
$11, 440 with benifits
Recreation, Tampa
The Seminole Tribune
Agnes Cypress, Pilot and Susie Billie arriving to vote.
16
May 25, 2001
Oneva and Neil Baxley casting their ballots.
L-R: President Mitchell Cypress, Secretary Treasurer Priscilla Sayen and Chairman James Billie
announce this years election winners.
Susie Billie casting vote. Agnes Cypress in back. Betty King at table.
Deloris Jumper and Tommy Jumper arriving to vote.
Election Victory Speeches
David Cypress – I would like to thank both
Big Cypress and Immokalee for your long-standing
support in this year’s election.
May the next two years remain as challenging and prosperous for us all.
God bless each and every one of you tribal
members.
Paul Bowers - I greatly appreciate everyone’s support in voting me in as your Big Cypress
Board Representative. My plans are to always be
available and to work hard for every tribal citizen.
Again thank you for your ballots on my behalf. Make
plans to attend the inauguration on June 4th in
Hollywood.
David DeHass – Thank you to all that supported me through this year’s election.
I hope within the next two years everyone
that did go out to vote will become aware of my
capabilities. Even if you voted for the other candidates I am here to work for you as well.
To the other candidates, do not give up on
your attempts and goals for there will be another
election. And then too, may the best man win.
Max B. Osceola, JR - Now that the tribal
elections are over I would like to congratulate all of
the successful candidates, and welcome then to the
tribal leadership role.
I would like to ask the members of the tribe
to support the elected representative so we may be
able to follow the wishes of the members and to
make the tribe stronger.
With the tribe working together we can
achieve many positive social, cultural and economic
gains that will benefit all the members of the tribe.
In closing I would like to thank the people
of the Hollywood reservation for your support and for
your suggestions, wishes and prayers for the next two
years.
Alex Johns – I would like to thank the
Brighton and Tampa communities for their continued
support and faith in me as their representative in this
year’s election. I will do my best to live up to your
expectations of me and do the best job possible for
you and the Tribe.
Each vote counts: Willie Johns ads his ballot.
Vernon Tiger campaigning for Hollywood.
Suspended License • Revoked License • Traffic Tickets • DUI
Maybe We
Can Help?
The Law Offices of
Guy J. Seligman, P.A.
320 S. E. 9th Street
Fort Lauderdale, FL. 33316
954-760-7600
0The hiring of an attorney is an important decision that should not be
based solely upon advertisements before you decide, ask us to send
you free written information about our qualifications and experience.
Max Osceola Jr. said his campaign speech at the gym.